Puny — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ˈpyü-nē/ pu·ny

Meaning & Definition of Puny

Puny (adjective)

  1. slight or inferior in power, size, or importance, weak

Puny (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. of a size that is less than average

    "a puny, wrinkled apple"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Puny

The most common words with a similar meaning to Puny:

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Puny

Words with the opposite meaning of Puny:

Near Antonyms of Puny

Word Forms of Puny

Inflections: punier, puniest

Derived words: punily (adverb), puniness (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Puny

Anglo-French puisné younger, weakly, literally, born afterward, from puis afterward + né born

First known use: circa 1577

Frequently Asked Questions about Puny

What does "Puny" mean?

"Puny" means slight or inferior in power, size, or importance, weak. As an adjective, it is defined as: slight or inferior in power, size, or importance, weak.

What is another word for "Puny"?

Other words for "Puny" include bantam, diminutive, dinky, dwarfish, fine, half-pint, Lilliputian and little. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Puny" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Puny"?

There are 65 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Puny". Common alternatives include bantam, diminutive, dinky, dwarfish, fine, half-pint, Lilliputian, little, pint-size and pocket.

What is the opposite of "Puny"?

Antonyms of "Puny" include big, biggish, considerable, goodly, grand, great, handsome and husky. Near antonyms include bulky, hefty, hulking and massive.

How do you use "Puny" in a sentence?

Examples of "Puny" in a sentence: "a puny, wrinkled apple".

Is "Puny" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Puny" is an adjective.

How do you pronounce "Puny"?

"Puny" is pronounced /ˈpyü-nē/ and divided into syllables as pu·ny.

What is the origin of the word "Puny"?

"Puny" comes from Anglo-French puisné younger, weakly, literally, born afterward, from puis afterward + né born. First known use: circa 1577.