Originally: a North African antelope of uncertain identity. In later use: any of several large antelopes constituting the genus Oryx, native to…

small deer: a phrase originally, and perhaps still by Shakespeare, used in sense 1; but now humorously associated with sense 2.

A very small living creature, esp. a tiny child. Also (in extended use): any object which is a small example of its kind. Cf. miting, n.

Any small animal, including small vertebrates as well as all invertebrates. Also in extended use. Obsolete.

A small invertebrate animal, usually having a body divided into segments, and several pairs of legs, and often winged; in popular use comprising…

A tiny animal. Cf. animalcule, n. 1.

Frequently derogatory. A person, animal, or thing of very small size or importance. Now rare.

= animalcule, n. (in various senses).

A familiar or affectionate name for an animal, often a farm animal (cf. beast, n. 2) or a pet. Sometimes spec. a small or diminutive animal.

A small or young beast; a little animal.

A thing or part analogous to or in some way resembling a thumb; e.g. a projecting spur or stump of a woody plant, a tool, etc.; also (cf. Tom Thumb…