small change

noun

1. coins of small denomination.
2. someone or something insignificant or trifling:

   Those people are small change.

small change

noun

1. coins, esp those of low value
2. a person or thing that is not outstanding or important

Word History and Origins

Origin of small change¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

We are proud that our film could be a catalyst for even a small change in the ways these boys are treated in China.

From The Daily Beast

It takes audiences inside the human spirit as a very small change makes an enormous difference.

From The Daily Beast

Make one small change toward a healthier lifestyle every week.

From The Daily Beast

He took off his hat, and moved mechanically toward the stand; and there he found a small change that was a great one to him.

From Project Gutenberg

He handed these to the Captain, who hastily looked over them, handed back the tobacco and other things and the small change.

From Project Gutenberg

Beauties and joys he was to keep for pocket-money; small change is sometimes great gain.

From Project Gutenberg

It is true that women went for twenty-four hours without food, but the reason was the lack of small change, not of eatables.

From Project Gutenberg

He looked it out from a handful of small change, folded it in some crumpled paper, and gave it to me.

From Project Gutenberg