noun
Formal or literary term for a small path or lane, similar to 小道 but more bookish. Often used in descriptive or poetic contexts.
See also: 小道
森の中の小径を散歩した。
We strolled along a path through the forest.
その小径は
The lane led into the old townscape.
noun-modifying (irregular)
small diameter; small caliber
Technical or descriptive term for something having a small diameter, such as pipes, wires, or circular objects. Used prenominally (e.g., 小径の).
この機械は小径のパイプを加工するのに適している。
This machine is suitable for processing small-diameter pipes.
小径のボルトを締めるには専用の工具が必要だ。
A special tool is needed to tighten small-diameter bolts.
小道 is the common, everyday word for a path or lane. 小径 is a formal or literary synonym, often used in written descriptions or poetic language.
Compound of 小 (small) and 径 (path, diameter). The 'path' sense is a straightforward kanji combination; the 'diameter' sense is a technical extension of 径.