矮个子 literally combines 矮 (ǎi, 'short' or 'low in height'), 个 (gè, a common measure word for people), and 子 (zi, a diminutive or nominal suffix). Together, it forms a colloquial noun meaning 'a short person' — typically referring to an adult whose height is noticeably below average. Unlike formal terms like 身材矮小 (shēncai ǎixiǎo), 矮个子 is neutral and widely used in everyday speech, especially when describing physical appearance or making comparisons.

The term carries no inherent negative connotation, though tone and context determine whether it sounds objective, affectionate, or teasing. It’s often used in contrast with 高个子 (tall person) and appears frequently in descriptions of people in workplaces, schools, or social settings. Note that 矮个子 refers to the person as a whole, not just their height — so it functions as a noun phrase, not an adjective.