ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Diminutives in Australian English

Diminutives in Australian English are words that have been changed slightly to make them sound cuter or more affectionate. For example, instead of saying ‘friend’ you might say ‘fren’. Instead of ‘cat’ you might say ‘tinnie’. It’s like when you give people nicknames or pet names- almost like a secret language just for you and your friends.