Definition

Adjective: smaller than normal for its kind; of less than the usual or standard size.

Usage

The adjective "undersized" is used to describe a person, animal, plant, or object that is noticeably smaller than what is considered typical, average, or expected for its type or age. It often implies a deficiency in size, sometimes due to poor growth, development, or manufacturing.

Examples

• The farmer separated the undersized apples from the harvest; they were too small to sell at the regular price.
• Despite being undersized for a basketball player, his speed and skill made him a valuable member of the team.
• The undersized puppy required special care and more frequent feedings than its littermates.

Advanced Usage

• "to be undersized for": This phrase is used to specify the standard or role against which something is considered small.
  • The goalkeeper was undersized for the professional league, but his reflexes were exceptional.
• In technical or industrial contexts, "undersized" can describe a component that does not meet specified dimensional tolerances.
  • The batch was rejected because the bolts were undersized and would not fit the nuts securely.

Variants and Related Words

• Undersize (adjective): A less common variant with the same meaning as "undersized."
• Underweight (adjective): Specifically refers to being below a normal or healthy weight, whereas "undersized" is more general (encompassing height, length, volume, etc.).

Synonyms

• Small: A general term for little size.
• Stunted: Impaired growth or development, often due to adverse conditions.
• Puny: Weak and small; suggests a lack of strength or importance.
• Dwarfed: Made to seem small by comparison or affected by a condition limiting growth.

Antonyms

• Oversized
• Oversize
• Large
• Gigantic

Related Phrases

• Runty: Small and stunted; often used for animals.
• Below par: Not up to the expected standard, which can include size.

Adjective

1. smaller than normal for its kind