Definition of "bantam" [ban•tam]

• Any of various breeds of very small domestic fowl that are often miniatures of members of larger breeds. (noun)
• A small but aggressive and spirited person. (noun)
• Diminutive; miniature. (adjective)
• Aggressive and spirited. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "But about other matters, the bantam is belligerent."
• "The word bantam itself is not only of geographical significance but incites one to conjure images of fast-footed boxers and nimble wrestlers."
• "The bantam is the proudest cock in my little yard. '"