wallet-size
Meaning
having the approximate dimensions of a standard wallet, typically referring to a small photograph (about 2 by 3 inches or 5 by 7.5 cm)
Structure
Usage
she keeps a wallet-size photo of her children in her purse.
the passport application requires two wallet-size pictures.
he printed the image in wallet-size format to fit in his card holder.
Etymology
The term is a Modern English compound noun, later used attributively as an adjective. The first element, 'wallet', originally referred to a traveler's bag, but its meaning narrowed to denote a small, flat case for carrying money and cards. The second element, 'size', derives from a legal term for an ordinance fixing a standard, which evolved to mean dimensions. Combined, 'wallet-size' literally means 'having the dimensions of a wallet', a specification that became standardized for small, portable photographs, linking the object's physical scale to a common personal item for easy carrying.
Analysis
- wallet: from middle english 'walet', meaning 'bag, knapsack', of germanic origin, likely from old french 'walet'. functions as a noun used attributively to specify the type. - size: from old french 'sise', a shortening of 'assise', meaning 'ordinance, act of fixing', ultimately from latin 'assidere' (to sit beside, assist in office). functions as a noun indicating dimensions or magnitude.