short

Elaine Landau (Short Stature: From Folklore to Fact) says, "We live in a society in which 'bigger' is often believed to be better. Consider the popularity of such fast-food favorites as the Big Mac or the Whopper. On the other hand, phrases such as 'falls short of' or 'comes up short' are often used to describe something that is less than desirable." She uses "short-statured people" and says that "negative feelings about short-statured people have often made it difficult for them to find employment." The term “little people/person” is used, although its appropriateness is disputed. Most often, it's unnecessary to mention anyone's height. See also dwarf, midget.