Definition

Describing something that is very small or insignificant, similar to a gnat.

Example

The gnatlike insects swarmed around the picnic, barely noticeable but quite annoying.

Conversation

Did you see that little bug flying around earlier?

Yeah, it was so gnatlike that I almost didn't notice it.

I thought it was just a speck of dust at first!

Same here! It really was tiny and insignificant.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gnatlike → It is formed from "gnat" (from Old English *gnæt*, meaning a small flying insect) and "-like" (meaning resembling or similar to). The word "gnatlike" describes something that resembles or is similar to a gnat.

Memory Tip

Think of a small flying insect ('gnat') and how the suffix '-like' indicates resemblance. This helps you remember that 'gnatlike' refers to something that resembles a gnat.

Visually Confused Words