mini

1 of 3

noun

ˈmi-nē 

plural minis

: something small of its kind: such as

a

: minicar

b

: miniskirt

c

: minicomputer

mini

2 of 3

adjective

1

: small in relation to others of the same kind

2

: of short length or duration : brief

mini-

3 of 3

combining form

: smaller or briefer than usual, normal, or standard

minicourse

minibus

Examples of mini in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Looking for a free mini puzzle? —Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 12 Oct. 2025

Ryder, wearing a purple Mercury T-shirt, was shooting on inflatable mini-hoops. —Ben Pickman, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025

Adjective

During interview rounds when applicants showcase their skills through mini projects or tests, the executive values prospective hires who enhance their assignments with the tools. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 12 Oct. 2025

With a variety of options available, from classic mini chocolate bars like Reese's and Snickers to the divisive candy corn, there is something for everyone. —Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 11 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

mini-

Combining form

miniature

First Known Use

Noun

1960, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1963, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing mini

• mini-mart
• mini pill
• mini-stroke

Rhymes for mini

• finny
• ginny
• jinny
• minnie
• ninny
• pinnae
• skinny
• spinney
• swinney
• tinny
• whinny
• winnie

Kids Definition

mini

1 of 2 noun

ˈmin-ē

: something small of its kind: as

a

: miniskirt

b

: minicomputer

mini-

2 of 2 combining form

: very small or short : miniature

minibike

miniskirt

Etymology

Combining form

derived by shortening from miniature