What does smaller mean?
“Smaller” is the comparative adjective of “small,” meaning less in size, amount, number, or degree. It is used for both physical dimensions and more abstract comparisons. For example, a container may be smaller than another container, while a problem may be smaller because fewer resources or less effort are involved. The word can also describe something that is less important or subordinate, as in “the smaller of two proposals.” “Smaller” is common in everyday speech and formal writing alike. In many contexts it can be replaced by “less” followed by a noun, but the comparative form is often more natural when the comparison is direct: “This model is smaller and lighter.” It is the opposite of “larger” or “bigger.”
adjectiveLess in size, amount, degree, or importance than something else. It is the comparative form of "small".
- Having less size or volume than another thing.
- Less in amount, number, or degree.
- Less important or subordinate in rank or significance.
"The smaller version is easier to carry and more comfortable to read."
"The shop moved to a smaller building across the street."
"A smaller number of people attended the second performance."
When one thing is simply less big, "smaller" is the precise word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does smaller come from?
“Smaller” is formed by adding the comparative suffix “-er” to the adjective “small.” The word “small” comes from Old English “smæl,” meaning small or little, and is related cognately to Old Norse “smár.” The comparative form has been used in English since the medieval period, following the regular pattern of English adjective inflection.
Related word forms
How smaller is actually used
Generally neutral and widely used in both British and American English. It can compare physical size, quantity, degree, scale, or significance; in formal contexts, "less" or a more precise noun may sometimes be preferable.
Easily confused with smaller
"Smaller" most directly compares physical size, while "lesser" more often compares importance, degree, or value.