adjective / noun / verb

slight

SLYTE/slaɪt/

Small in extent or significance.

The cup has only a slight chip in its otherwise intact rim.

A nearly pristine ceramic cup with only a slight chip in its rim, making the small degree of damage visible against the otherwise intact object.

Etymology

Middle English slight meant “smooth” or “sleek”; the meaning probably shifted through “slender” and “insubstantial” to describe something small in amount or of little importance.

In context

The Textile Notebook5:46

given a very slight temporary twist just to hold it together.

Cotton Fiber and Yarn Quality Testing

More examples

There is only a slight difference between the two colors.
Despite her slight build, she lifts the heavy box easily.
He takes the missing invitation as a personal slight.
She feels slighted when her teammates ignore her contribution.

Forms

slight · slighter · slightest · slights · slighted · slighting

slightly adverb — To a small degree or extent.

slightness noun — The quality of being small or delicate.

Similar words

small: More general; describes physical size as well as amount.
minor: Emphasizes limited importance or seriousness rather than small quantity.