lesser

American  

[les-er] / ˈlɛs ər /

adjective

1. smaller, as in size or importance; inferior.

   a lesser evil.

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adverb

1. less.

lesser British  

/ ˈlɛsə /

adjective

1. not as great in quantity, size, or worth

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Etymology

Origin of lesser

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English lasser, lesser; less, -er ⁴

Compare meaning

How does lesser compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• lesser vs. lessor

Example Sentences

At a sanctuary in Walvis Bay, Namibia, a group of lesser flamingos gather beneath a stretch of power lines at sunset.

From BBC

He ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser charge.

From BBC

The requirements would be most rigorous in a “high-impact” zone within six miles of a fire perimeter, with potentially lesser requirements for residences as they get further away.

From Los Angeles Times

John Rogers was convicted of a lesser charge in a case that featured spycraft, online seduction and a blackmail scam.

From The Wall Street Journal

Prices at the pumps have been going up around the world, although to a lesser extent than seen in Asia.

From BBC

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor