Definition
midgets
noun
- plural of midget; people of unusually small stature
Usage: offensive; considered derogatory; medical term ‘dwarfism’ preferred
Examples
- The term ‘midgets’ is now considered offensive when referring to people with dwarfism.
- Medical professionals prefer the term ‘little people’ over ‘midgets.’
- The circus historically employed performers they called midgets, though this language is no longer acceptable.
- Advocacy groups have worked to eliminate the word ‘midgets’ from public discourse.
- Modern entertainment avoids using the term ‘midgets’ in favor of more respectful language.