small-mindedness
UK[ˌsmɔːl ˈmaɪndɪdnəs]US[ˌsmɑːl ˈmaɪndɪdnəs]
n
the quality or state of having a narrow, prejudiced, or intolerant outlook.
Morpheme Breakdown
small
minded
ness
small
limited
minded
having a mind
ness
state or quality
Etymology
the word is a modern english compound formed by combining three distinct germanic elements. the adjective 'small', with its ancient sense of narrowness, was figuratively applied to intellect or outlook. the participial adjective 'minded' specifies possession of a particular mental character. finally, the abstract noun suffix '-ness' converts this descriptive phrase into a single term denoting the quality itself. thus, the literal progression from 'having a narrow mind' to the modern abstract noun meaning 'the state of being intolerant or prejudiced' is a clear example of english's ability to build complex concepts from simple, native roots.
Analysis
Structure: small (limited) + minded (having a mind) + ness (state or quality)
- small: from old english smæl (narrow, slender), germanic origin. functions as an adjective root meaning limited in scope or scale.
- minded: from old english gemynd (memory, thought) + the suffix -ed, forming an adjective meaning 'having a (specified kind of) mind'.
- ness: from old english -nes(s), a noun-forming suffix indicating a state, quality, or condition.
Examples
his small-mindedness prevented him from appreciating different cultures and ideas.
the committee's decision was criticized for its sheer small-mindedness and lack of vision.
she left the provincial town to escape the gossip and small-mindedness of her neighbors.