as in small
of a size that is less than average a puny, wrinkled apple

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of puny The rally in May is puny, though, compared to previous somewhat similar periods and that’s what El-Arian is noting in his comments. John Navin, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 Most of the major relationship milestones and potholes happen offscreen between the seasonal vacays, leaving us to find entertainment and meaning in the puny aftershocks. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 2 May 2025 And that means something in a Hollywood that now caters to puny screens and punier visions, outsourcing the finer mechanics of action filmmaking to the visual-effects department. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 21 May 2025 Vampire Survivors weighs in at a puny 600 megabytes. Luke Winkie, Vulture, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for puny
Recent Examples of Synonyms for puny
Adjective
  • Deforestation and insufficient small prey force birds to migrate to other areas.
    The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025
  • The local government of the small and far-from-wealthy hometown of Pope Leo XIV has voted to acquire the former Robert Prevost’s childhood home as a future museum.
    Howard Husock, National Review, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • The diminutive Argentine ghosted between defenders, leapt high behind 6ft 2in center back Rio Ferdinand and met the ball with a perfect header, looping it past goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar into the far corner of the net.
    Asli Pelit, New York Times, 12 July 2025
  • There was the diminutive Puck, whose tiny body could hurdle through foes like a bowling ball, and Sasquatch, the scientist Walter Langkowski who transformed into a Hulk-like mythical Great Beast of the North with but a thought.
    Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • With their upper minor league depth worn thin, the Braves’ called on 19-year-old Didier Fuentes, who had little experience above A ball.
    Tony Blengino, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • The shoulder straps can even be tied into little bows and adjusted for a custom fit.
    Nicol Natale, People.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • One nautical mile west of Santorini, opposite the village of Oia and the caldera, lies the tiny island of Therasia, accessible via boat departing from Ammoudi Bay.
    Monica Mendal, Vogue, 15 July 2025
  • The film community of Vancouver Island is tiny compared to the City of Vancouver’s Hollywood North hub.
    Jennie Punter, Variety, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Built with water-resistant polyester, this spacious duffel has a dedicated shoe compartment, an end pocket for wet or dirty clothes, a multi-pocket compression panel for organization, and an interior divider curtain that can be removed to hold bulky clothes or outdoor gear.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The Vault by Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Collection includes special-edition versions of the iconic Vans Slip-On VP VR3 LX with adaptations—think canvas pockets and easy-carry heel straps—inspired by a classic multi-pocket garden tote and workwear bucket bag often used on construction job sites.
    Hollyanna McCollom, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Mar. 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Puny.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/puny. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

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