Diminutive

A diminutive is a formation of a word used to convey a slight degree of the root meaning, smallness of the object named, intimacy, or endearment. In some languages diminutives are formed in a regular way by adding affixes to nouns and proper names, in English the alteration of meaning is often but not essentially conveyed through smaller size. English diminutives tend to be shorter and more colloquial than the basic form of the word, diminutives formed by adding affixes in other languages are often longer and not necessarily colloquial. Diminutives are often used for affection (see nickname and hypocoristic). In many languages the meaning of diminution can be translated "tiny" or "wee" and diminutives are used a lot when speaking to small children; adult people sometimes use diminutives when they express extreme tenderness and intimacy by behaving and talking like children (for example in sexual situations). See also Apocopation.

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Affixes: REDIRECT Affix...

Colloquial: redirect Colloquialism...

Nickname: A nickname is a short, clever, cute, derogatory, or otherwise substitute name for a person or thing's real name (for example, Tom is short for Thomas). As a concept, it is distinct from both pseudonym and stage name, although there may be overlap in these concepts....

Diminutive related Images and Photos (experimental)

Diminutive Jockey Gives His Considered Opinion to a Couple