dwarf

[dwɔːf]

dwarf Definition

• 1. a person, animal, or plant much smaller than the average of its kind or species
• 2. a 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

Synonyms for dwarf

• pygmy
• runt
• gnome
• midget

Antonyms for dwarf

• giant
• colossus

Idioms Using dwarf

• stand on the shoulders of giants (and dwarfs)

  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.

• a dwarf among giants

  someone who is much smaller or less powerful than those around them

  Example

  As a new employee at the law firm, I felt like a dwarf among giants.

• dwarfed by

  made to seem small or insignificant in comparison to something else

  Example

  The skyscraper dwarfed the surrounding buildings.

Phrases with dwarf

• dwarf planet

  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.

• dwarf hamster

  a small species of hamster that is commonly kept as a pet

  Example

  The dwarf hamster is a popular choice for families with young children.

• dwarf conifer

  a type of evergreen tree or shrub that is smaller than other members of its species

  Example

  The dwarf conifer is a popular landscaping plant because of its compact size.

Origins of dwarf

from Old English 'dweorg', meaning 'dwarf'

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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.