minis

Minis is a plural term used to refer to miniature versions of objects, as well as products and brands associated with small size. The usage spans toys, models, electronics, and automotive branding, and is common in hobbyist and consumer contexts.

In automotive contexts, Minis most often denote vehicles associated with the British brand originally named Mini. The original Mini was introduced in 1959 by the British Motor Corporation as a compact, economical car designed by Alec Issigonis. Its transverse-engine, front-wheel-drive layout maximized interior space and efficiency, producing a culturally iconic small car with numerous variants produced under the Austin and Morris brands. Production continued into the late 1990s, after which the brand was revamped. In 2001, BMW relaunched the brand as MINI, adopting a distinct design language and rapidly expanding the lineup to include three- and five-door hatchbacks, convertibles, and larger models such as the Countryman and Clubman.

In hobby and gaming contexts, "minis" commonly refer to miniature figurines used in tabletop games and wargaming. These figures, typically in scales around 28 to 32 millimeters, are made from plastic, metal, or resin and are painted and customized by players. Prominent genres and lines include fantasy and sci-fi settings, with widely known products from publishers and manufacturers such as Games Workshop, Wizards of the Coast, and various independent studios. Collecting, painting, and gaming with minis constitute a substantial subculture, with competitions, conventions, and online communities.

Beyond cars and gaming, the term minis appears in general usage to describe any small or compact version of a product, from electronics to kitchen appliances, highlighting the broad appeal of miniature form factors.