Pygmy

/ˈpɪɡmi/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A member of certain peoples of very short stature in equatorial Africa and parts of Asia.

The Pygmies of the Congo rainforest have a rich cultural heritage and unique ways of living.

A person of diminutive stature.

Despite his small size, he was a giant in the world of ideas, often referred to as a pygmy in comparison to his towering colleagues.

A small or diminutive version of something.

The garden was filled with pygmy pines that perfectly suited the landscape.

adjective

Relating to or characteristic of a pygmy.

The pygmy culture has traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Very small or diminutive.

He has a pygmy mentality when it comes to tackling big issues, always thinking small.

From the Greek 'pygmē', meaning 'a fist', referring to the height of the pygmies.

pygmy stature

Refers to someone being very short in height.

pygmy culture

Describes the unique traditions and lifestyles of pygmy groups.

dwarf

A person of unusually small stature.

midget

An offensive term for a person of restricted growth.

gnome

A mythical creature often depicted as small and humanoid.

Someone who is very small or diminutive.

That guy is a complete pygmy compared to his friends.

A derogatory term for someone perceived as insignificant or powerless.

He felt like a pygmy in that meeting, unable to voice his opinions.