矮小 (ǎi xiǎo) is a compound adjective meaning 'short and small', emphasizing both low height and small size. The character 矮 means 'short' (especially in stature), while 小 means 'small' — together, they reinforce each other to describe something physically compact and undersized. Unlike 矮 alone (which focuses only on height) or 小 alone (which refers broadly to size or age), 矮小 conveys a combined impression of diminutive scale and stature.

This term is commonly used for young children, dwarf animals, stunted plants, or miniature breeds — often with a neutral or slightly descriptive tone, not necessarily negative. It appears frequently in biology, agriculture, and everyday observation, especially when comparing growth or physical development. Note that 矮小 is rarely used for adults unless describing medical conditions (e.g., growth disorders), where it may carry clinical nuance.