RUNT Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

runt

noun

ˈrənt

Definition of runt

as in dwarf

something (such as an animal) much smaller than others of its kind one kitten was definitely the runt, weighing only six ounces at birth

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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 runt Schuster-Koloamatangi, who’s a native New Zealander, plays Dek, the franchise’s first Yautja protagonist, and as the runt of his Predator clan, he’s been completely written off by his father. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 4 Nov. 2025 Seen as the runt of his clan, Dek has something to prove. — Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2025 College football’s eternal doormat, the runt of the SEC’s original litter, had earned time in the national spotlight. — Quentin Corpuel, Kansas City Star, 31 Oct. 2025 Imagine a second straight year of Bama righting the season by beating Georgia — and then immediately losing to the SEC's longtime runt. — Jason Kirk, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for runt

Recent Examples of Synonyms for runt

Noun

And the question is whether the planets even have atmospheres, because M dwarfs are quite active.

— Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 9 July 2026
Fell also recommends using tall plants for support, including okra or sweet corn; dwarf varieties of corn are known to do well in containers.

— Martha Ross, Mercury News, 8 July 2026

Definition of dwarf

Noun

The more common nickname, El Mencho, is said to be a diminutive of his first name, Nemesio.

— Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 23 Feb. 2026
Another gender-neutral name that had a burst of popularity in the ‘80s and ‘90s, Jamie was a go-to for girls or a diminutive of James for boys.

— Kara Nesvig, Parents, 20 Feb. 2026

Definition of diminutive

Noun

The two 15-year-olds were allegedly drinking alcohol inside the vehicle and hanging out of the windows of the vehicle, shooting Orbeez water beads out of a toy gun.

— Noe Padilla, USA Today, 10 July 2026
You’re also not allowed to throw anything from the car—which presumably includes shooting toy guns out the window—and weapons are also not allowed.

— Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2026