peewee
/ˈpiːwiː/
noun
Origin
English
peewee — onomatopoeic representation of a bird cry
Overview
Meaning Now
- A small or insignificant person or thing.
- A game played with a small piece of wood that is struck with a stick.
Literal older meaning
Representing the call of a small bird.
Language path
English
Earliest form
peewee
Earliest period
19th century
Journey
The term likely derived from the common name for various flycatchers (such as the eastern wood-pewee), which are known for their distinct, thin, whistled songs. As the word entered general American slang, it became a standard descriptor for children or small individuals.
Evolution
- 1840s
peewee
“a type of small bird, specifically the pewee”
Imitative of bird call
- late 19th century
peewee
“anything small or diminutive”
Extension of meaning from a small bird to small people or objects
Connections
Word parts
pee-wee
other
imitative of a shrill, high-pitched sound
Related across languages
Dutch
kievit
lapwing (imitative of bird call)
Explore next
Related to peewee
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.