small-fry

adjective

ˈsmȯl-ˌfrī How to pronounce small-fry (audio)
Definition of small-frynext
as in small
lacking importance some small-fry official in the state government with a big-time ego

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 small-fry Ridley Scott directs Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura in the first episode of a tale in which two small-fry thieves rob a drug den and become the target of a relentless kingpin. — Shauna Lyon, The New Yorker, 28 Feb. 2025 Cassatt achieved hers by changing mediums; by experimenting with colors; and by being perversely drawn to small-fry subject matter, then mining it from all angles. — Carlos Valladares, ARTnews.com, 27 June 2024 For small-fry investors and big money managers alike, the psychological toll of falling behind creates pressure, particularly for those sticking with the playbook. — Ryan Hogg, Fortune, 10 June 2024 Brad Heppner had the grand idea of bringing investment opportunities enjoyed by Wall Street institutions to small-fry investors. — Alexander Gladstone, WSJ, 28 July 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for small-fry
  1. small
  2. minor
  3. little
Adjective
  • The division charged with keeping a handle on parasitic diseases had already been small, with only a few employees designated to parasite work.
    — Blake Ellis, CNN Money, 20 July 2026
  • When states lose the authority to set their own food safety and agricultural standards, consumers and small farmers pay the price.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 19 July 2026
Definition of small
Adjective
  • The projectile caused minor structural damage, but there were no injuries among the crew and the ship has continued its journey, the report said.
    — Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 17 July 2026
  • The project cost is estimated at $85,000, according to a permit for minor tenant improvements submitted to the city.
    — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 16 July 2026
Definition of minor
Adjective
  • The latest appearance will do little to quell criticism of Infantino, who is standing currently unopposed for re-election as FIFA president.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 July 2026
  • At a press conference with Ontario Premier Doug Ford, government officials said that the fire had started unusually close to the community in Collins, leaving little time to respond.
    — Alessandra Freitas, CNN Money, 18 July 2026
Definition of little

Browse Nearby Words

smallest
small-fry
smallholding
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Cite this Entry

“Small-fry.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/small-fry. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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