1
: small in scope
especially : small in output or operation
2
of a map : having a scale (such as one inch to 25 miles) that permits plotting of comparatively little detail and shows mainly large features

Examples of small-scale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition to its Shively distillery, the company also owns Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, which features a small-scale distillation setup, tours, and one of the area’s most popular cocktail bars. David Thomas Tao, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 Still, the researchers are optimistic that a small-scale demonstration is within reach. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 9 Sep. 2025 Having the most would-be glamorous member of the staff drawn into thinking a photo of Josh Holloway represents her new online boyfriend twists Michael Scott–like behavior into something that feels more keyed into this specific world of small-scale media. Jesse Hassenger, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2025 But those aware of it nicknamed it the Bay of Piglets for the small-scale nonsense of it. Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for small-scale

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of small-scale was in 1851

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Cite this Entry

“Small-scale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/small-scale. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

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