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

The Falcons led 25-18 at halftime by answering every time the Nighthawks made a mini-run. —Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 14 Mar. 2026

This is too extreme even for some Republicans, eight of whom voted against the bill in a mini-rebellion in the House. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 14 Mar. 2026

Adjective

Note that whilst bookings can be paid in a number of currencies, the mini mart on-site does not take international cards. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Mar. 2026

The roomy main compartment fits full-size products, while small interior pockets along the sides help keep lip glosses and mini products nice and organized. —Sarah Han, Allure, 15 Mar. 2026

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