unano
/ʔuˈnanoʔ/
The Tagalog word for midget is unano.
unano is the standard term used to refer to a person of small stature, specifically an adult with a height of less than 4'10". While it is the common term for a midget or dwarf, it can be used pejoratively depending on the tone and context in which it is spoken."
Meaning: person of small stature of adult height less than 4'10" (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ʔuˈnanoʔ/
Did you know?
- The root of the word is linked to the Latin 'nanus', which is also the scientific basis for terms like 'nanotechnology' used in English.
- In Filipino folklore, the duwende is a mythical creature of small stature similar to a gnome or goblin. While unano is a clinical or descriptive term, duwende refers to supernatural beings who are said to live in anthills and can cause illness if their home is accidentally destroyed.
- Because unano can be used pejoratively, many Filipinos use the English word 'dwarf' or 'little person' in formal or sensitive settings to avoid causing offense.
Examples in context
- Siya ay isang unano.He is a midget.
- May nakita akong unano sa parke.I saw a midget in the park.
Example conversation
Juan and Jasmine are talking about a person they saw at a community festival.
- JuanNakita mo ba ang unano sa pista?Did you see the midget at the festival?
- JasmineOo, nakita ko siya.Yes, I saw him.
- JuanAng liit talaga ng unano na iyon.That midget is really small.
- JasmineTotoo, pero masayahin siyang tao.True, but he is a cheerful person.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “midget” translations and entries unano, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries unano, CC BY-SA 4.0.
