First recorded in 1920–25
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Brian can certainly pursue this matter in small-claims court.
From MarketWatch ● May 28, 2026
A fan suing LeBron James in small-claims court after buying Lakers tickets thinking the NBA icon was retiring drops the case after a sports-betting app intervenes.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 22, 2025
Ashanti had represented his wife in small-claims court in a dispute with her former employer, a nonprofit wholly owned by a city agency — a clear conflict of interest.
From Salon ● Dec. 21, 2022
Even though attorneys aren’t allowed in small-claims court, renters can feel outgunned if going up against a landlord or property management company in front of a judge.
From Seattle Times ● May 22, 2022
When Andrew Epstein didn’t respond to the mediator, she considered suing Larson in small-claims court.
From New York Times ● Oct. 5, 2021
On two occasions she has had to take people to the small claims court to make sure Carmarthenshire-based West Wales Electrical Solutions has been paid.
From BBC ● May 10, 2026
Chris, a retired sheriff clerk, told Ryanair if they did not reopen his wife's claim, he would help her to raise the issue as a simple procedure - the replacement for small claims court.
From BBC ● Mar. 11, 2026
I’m ready to take him to small claims court.
From Slate ● Sep. 15, 2023
Davis has sued Hudson in small claims court.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 7, 2023
However, their landlord can pursue action in small claims court for the unpaid rent.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 31, 2023
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
