small stuff

American  

noun

Nautical.

1. small cordage, as marlines, yarns, etc.

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small stuff British  

noun

1. nautical any light twine or yarn used aboard ship for serving lines, etc

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Etymology

Origin of small stuff

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

We want to chase “these big things,” as he described them, but sometimes it’s the small stuff we encounter along the way that counts the most.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 31, 2025

They always say don’t sweat the small stuff, but I think it’s the small stuff that ultimately makes a difference here.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 24, 2025

The job is to reassure reluctant members, at each procedural juncture where their votes are needed, not to sweat the small stuff and that things will be fixed down the line.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2025

"You're also able to ask things of each other, some of that's the big stuff but some of the really small stuff which is like how do I fill in this admin form," Sandher said.

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2024

She lived in her own room, learned to sneak around, learned how to carry small stuff between her arms and her rib cage.

From "Things Not Seen" by Andrew Clements