Definition

1. Noun:
   • The state or quality of being small in size: "littleness" refers to having relatively small physical dimensions.
   • Lack of generosity; pettiness: "littleness" can describe a mean-spirited or narrow-minded attitude, especially concerning trivial matters.
   • Relative lack of strength or vigor: "littleness" can indicate a quality of being weak or lacking in force.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to small physical size:

  • The littleness of the kitten made it seem even more vulnerable.
  • He was struck by the littleness of the model village.

• Referring to a mean or petty character:

  • I was disappointed by the littleness of his actions during the dispute.
  • Her constant complaints revealed a certain littleness of spirit.

• Referring to lack of strength or impact:

  • The littleness of the sound made it hard to hear.
  • Despite the littleness of his frame, he possessed great determination.

Advanced Usage

• "Littleness of mind": A state of being narrow-minded or having limited intellectual scope.

  • The policy was born from a profound littleness of mind.

• "Betray a littleness": To reveal a petty or ungenerous nature through one's actions.

  • His refusal to share credit betrays a certain littleness.

Variants and Related Words

• Little (adj): Small in size, amount, or degree; also, younger.
  • A little house; my little brother.
• Petty (adj): Of little importance; trivial; also, characterized by meanness or small-mindedness.
  • Petty arguments; petty jealousy.
• Smallness (n): The quality of being small. (Often used interchangeably with "littleness" for physical size, but less commonly for character).
  • The smallness of the room.

Synonyms

• For size: Smallness, diminutiveness, tininess.
• For character: Pettiness, meanness, narrow-mindedness, triviality.
• For strength: Weakness, feebleness, faintness.

Antonyms

• For size: Bigness, largeness, greatness, enormity.
• For character: Generosity, magnanimity, nobility, broad-mindedness.
• For strength: Strength, power, vigor, force.

Noun

1. lack of generosity in trifling matters
2. the property of having relatively little strength or vigor
   • the smallness of her voice
3. the property of having a relatively small size