Definitions

stunted

[stuhn-tid] / ˈstʌn tɪd /

ADJECTIVE

kept from growing

Synonyms

STRONG

dwarf dwarfed scrub short shot shrimp wee

WEAK

bantam diminutive dwarfish half-pint little measly mite peanut peewee pint-sized runted runtish runty small small-fry tiny undergrown undersized yea big yea high

Antonyms

STRONG

large

WEAK

developing growing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The economy was stunted by abnormally severe winter weather, for one thing.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

If these challenges persist—or spread to other countries— the global economy could be in for a period of higher inflation and stunted growth.

From Barron's • Mar. 22, 2026

Demand growth is stunted and supply remains plentiful.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

Geopolitics, war and difficulty securing visas has stunted progress, but now, about to enter Austria, Karl and his family back home are preparing for the homecoming.

From BBC • Dec. 28, 2025

Aru glanced across the parking lot to where a stunted tree had lost almost all of its leaves.

From "Aru Shah and the End of Time" by Roshani Chokshi

Vocabulary lists containing stunted

A Long Walk to Water

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Island of the Blue Dolphins

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The Sea of Monsters

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!