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 Kardashians star also shared a look at what appeared to be a holiday party, including her son dressed up for the occasion in a mini-suit. —Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 27 Dec. 2025

Layer a faux suede mini skirt over the tights for a chic look, and top it all off with this thick, long coatigan. —Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2025

Adjective

The mini wristlet fits all your cards, cash, and even a lipstick, despite its compact size. —Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 27 Dec. 2025

This mini pendant necklace is a shining example—quite literally, thanks to its sparkling round pendant. —Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 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