mini-blinds
UK[ˈmɪni blaɪndz]US[ˈmɪni blaɪndz]
n
A type of window blind consisting of numerous narrow horizontal slats, typically made of aluminum or vinyl, that can be tilted to control light and privacy.
Morpheme Breakdown
mini
blinds
mini
small
blinds
window coverings
Etymology
The term is a modern compound, formed in the latter half of the 20th century. The first element, "mini," derives from the Latin minimus, entering English as a prefix to denote a miniature or smaller version of something. The second element, "blinds," originates from the Old English adjective blind, which evolved to refer to any device that obscures vision or light, particularly window coverings. The compound "mini-blinds" thus logically describes a compact, slatted version of traditional window blinds, with "mini" specifying its characteristic narrow slats in contrast to wider Venetian blinds.
Analysis
Structure: mini (small) + blinds (window coverings)
mini: From Latin minimus (smallest, least). In English, a combining form meaning "small in size or duration."
blinds: From Old English blind (sightless, dark, obscure). In this compound, it refers to a window covering designed to block sight or light.
Examples
She adjusted the mini-blinds to let in just a sliver of morning light.
The office was equipped with neutral-colored mini-blinds on every window.
Dust tends to accumulate easily on the slats of mini-blinds.