small-minded

adjective

small-mind·​ed ˈsmȯl-ˈmīn-dəd 

1

: having narrow interests, sympathies, or outlook

2

: typical of a small-minded person : marked by pettiness, narrowness, or meanness

small-minded conduct

small-mindedly adverb

small-mindedness noun

Synonyms of small-minded

• narrow
• parochial
• provincial
• bigoted
• narrow-minded
• intolerant
• prejudiced

Examples of small-minded in a Sentence

a small-minded man only concerned with his own well-being

resented the small-minded people who automatically opposed every new idea

Recent Examples on the Web

All those small-hearted, small-minded people, there’s a hell for you. — Marlow Stern, Variety, 25 May 2026

All those small-hearted, small-minded people, there's a hell for you. — Sharareh Drury, Entertainment Weekly, 25 May 2026

What if both groups ignored the small-minded prison of petty politics? — Aaron Everitt, STAT, 10 Apr. 2026

These are not small-minded accomplishments. — Michael Stepner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for small-minded

• reminded
• blinded
• minded
• feebleminded
• masterminded

Kids Definition

small-minded

adjective

small-mind·​ed

ˈsmȯl-ˈmīn-dəd

1

: having narrow interests, sympathies, or outlook

2

: typical of a small-minded person : petty

small-mindedness noun