puny

adjective

ˈpyü-nē How to pronounce puny (audio)
Definition of punynext
as in small
of a size that is less than average a puny, wrinkled apple

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 puny No man can give me any word but Wait , The puny light . — A.o. Scott, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2025 Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, just single-handedly turned today’s sizeable selloff into something much more puny. — Kelly Evans, CNBC, 3 Feb. 2025 But these would seem puny compared with some of the snake species that slithered on Earth millions of years ago. — Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 28 Jan. 2025 Looking at the entirety of his career, these little critical riddles are pretty puny. — Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for puny
Recent Examples of Synonyms for puny
  1. small
  2. diminutive
  3. little
  4. tiny
  5. pocket
Adjective
  • There are other arguments for smaller capacity venues.
    — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Mar. 2025
  • On Monday evening, a small but passionate group of parents, students, and teachers gathered at a school board meeting to once against ask officials to pause the plan and look for other options that would allow Central to stay open.
    — Rose Evans, Idaho Statesman, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of small
Adjective
  • The stark contrast of the diminutive Japanese guard going up against the host nation’s 7 feet 3 inches tall center Victor Wembanyama was one of the most memorable images of the Games.
    — Hanako Montgomery, CNN, 10 Mar. 2025
  • Here are two fascinating, and diminutive, examples.
    — Scott Travers, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
Definition of diminutive
Adjective
  • One 2019 study from researchers at Florida Gulf Coast University and West Virginia University found little evidence that CDFI funding significantly boosts small business activity.
    — Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
  • And despite the dynamic, positive feedback of the recovery, there is little evidence of fresh dollar inflows at this point.
    — Guy Petcho, National Review, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of little
Adjective
  • Apply a tiny bit of water to the wonton edges with your finger.
    — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Regular computers, including the one on your desk, think in tiny bits of information that are either a 1 or a 0—like flipping a light switch on or off.
    — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of tiny
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
Definition of pocket

Browse Nearby Words

puny
pup
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Cite this Entry

“Puny.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/puny. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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