dwarf Definition
- 1a person, animal, or plant much smaller than the average of its kind or species
- 2a creature from folklore that is typically depicted as a small, bearded man with magical powers
Using dwarf: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dwarf" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The bonsai tree was a dwarf version of a maple tree.
Example
The dwarf rabbit was much smaller than the other rabbits in the litter.
Example
In Norse mythology, dwarves were skilled craftsmen who created powerful weapons and magical artifacts.
Example
The Seven Dwarfs from Snow White are some of the most famous fictional dwarves.
dwarf Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using dwarf
to build on the work of those who came before you, including those who may have been overlooked or undervalued
Example
As a scientist, I know that I stand on the shoulders of giants and dwarfs who have contributed to my field over the years.
Example
As a new employee at the law firm, I felt like a dwarf among giants.
Example
The skyscraper dwarfed the surrounding buildings.
Phrases with dwarf
a celestial body that orbits the sun and is spherical in shape but has not cleared its orbit of other debris
Example
Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet.
Example
The dwarf hamster is a popular choice for families with young children.
Example
The dwarf conifer is a popular landscaping plant because of its compact size.
Origins of dwarf
from Old English 'dweorg', meaning 'dwarf'
Summary: dwarf in Brief
The term 'dwarf' [dwɔːf] refers to a person, animal, or plant that is much smaller than the average of its kind or species. It can also refer to a creature from folklore that is typically depicted as a small, bearded man with magical powers. Examples include the Seven Dwarfs from Snow White and dwarf hamsters. Idioms include 'stand on the shoulders of giants (and dwarfs),' meaning to build on the work of those who came before you, and 'a dwarf among giants,' meaning someone who is much smaller or less powerful than those around them.