small change

noun

Synonyms of small changenext
1
: coins of low denomination
2

Examples of small change in a Sentence

a pocket full of small change The fine is a lot of money to some people, but to him it's small change. My problems are small change compared to yours. He wasn't a major criminal. He was strictly small change.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even seemingly small changes, like adding a blender or microwave to a yacht, can have a major impact on the overall layout and design. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 11 Aug. 2026 In all these systems, a small change in oxygen concentration can affect safety, quality or efficiency. Gregory Shahnovsky, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Every small change – the good and the bad – has big consequences. Robert Smith, NPR, 5 Aug. 2026 These small changes are easy to complete but can add up to meaningful savings over time. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 29, Sacbee.com, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for small change

Word History

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of small change was in 1679

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Cite this Entry

“Small change.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/small%20change. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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