PUNY Synonyms: 159 Similar and Opposite Words

puny

adjective

ˈpyü-nē

Definition of puny

as in small

of a size that is less than average a puny, wrinkled apple

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of puny But the processes that govern gene regulation are proving so complex that some biologists wonder whether a full understanding of it — of how the genome really works — will ever be within the grasp of our puny minds. — Philip Ball, Quanta Magazine, 18 June 2026 Familiarity has reduced the plane into a puny can. — Joseph Trinidad, Longreads, 16 June 2026 In an earlier era, this panorama might have communicated the puny anonymity of corporate life. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 15 June 2026 The turbine maxed out at 25 kilowatts—puny compared to modern machines that generate up to 26 megawatts, but more than most energy experts expected from wind technology in November 1976. — IEEE Spectrum, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for puny

Recent Examples of Synonyms for puny

Adjective

Instead, contestants compete for crowd reaction and are rewarded with attention and, in some cases, small cash prizes.

— Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Mix the cornstarch with the cold water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of small

Adjective

The diminutive Taiwanese market-slash-lunch counter Taiwan Best Mart’s cold sesame noodles ($13) are a refreshing tangle of cucumbers, carrots, cilantro, scallions, sesame seeds, flour noodles and the market’s house sesame sauce.

— Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 19 Aug. 2026
There’s even a diminutive bowl from the Roman Empire that dates back 2,000 years.

— Carolanne Griffith Roberts, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of diminutive

Adjective

Those sea views will keep you company during your workout on the little gym platform overlooking the beach.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Aug. 2026
Increased regular season importance Arguably the biggest criticism of the current 18-team format is that there was too little reward for teams who demonstrated regular season excellence.

— Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of little

Adjective

One of my non-negotiable recommendations is Tonnara di Scopello, another historic tuna fishery turned into a tiny museum and protected cove.

— Megan Rose Murray, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Aug. 2026
Forward-looking brands and retailers are drawing up blueprints for the next demographic frontier — the tiniest tots born between 2025 and 2039.

— Faye Brookman, Footwear News, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of tiny

Browse Nearby Words

punts

puny

pup

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“Puny.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/puny. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of puny

adjective

Example Sentences

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