1
: small in scope
especially : small in output or operation
2
of a map : having a scale (such as one inch to 25 miles) that permits plotting of comparatively little detail and shows mainly large features

Examples of small-scale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The benign case is that China is doing small-scale testing to ensure its weapons won't explode accidentally. Geoff Brumfiel, NPR, 11 Feb. 2026 The China shock took a disproportionate toll on small-scale manufacturing—textiles, toys, furniture—concentrated primarily in the South. Josh Tyrangiel, The Atlantic, 10 Feb. 2026 Island Park is spending $10 million to mitigate water contamination because high-use vacation rentals overwhelmed the small-scale septic systems originally installed for weekend cabins. Mark Dee, Idaho Statesman, 10 Feb. 2026 Myriad small-scale efforts of mutual aid and support have proliferated. Harry Boyte, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for small-scale

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of small-scale was in 1851

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Cite this Entry

“Small-scale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/small-scale. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

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