1. plural of midget; people of unusually small stature
Usage: offensive; considered derogatory; medical term ‘dwarfism’ preferred

Examples

• The term ‘midgets’ is now considered offensive when referring to people with dwarfism.
• Medical professionals prefer the term ‘little people’ over ‘midgets.’
• The circus historically employed performers they called midgets, though this language is no longer acceptable.
• Advocacy groups have worked to eliminate the word ‘midgets’ from public discourse.
• Modern entertainment avoids using the term ‘midgets’ in favor of more respectful language.