least

[leest]

adjective

1. smallest in size, amount, degree, etc.; slightest.

   He gave the least amount of money of anyone.

2. lowest in consideration, position, or importance.

noun

1. something that is least; the least amount, quantity, degree, etc.

2. South Midland U.S.,  the youngest in a family or group.

adverb

1. to the smallest extent, amount, or degree.

   That's the least important question of all. He talks least.

least

/ liːst /

determiner

1. 1. the superlative of little

      you have the least talent of anyone

   2. ( as pronoun; functioning as sing )

      least isn't necessarily worst

2. 1. if nothing else

      you should at least try

   2. at the least

3. at the minimum

   at the least you should earn a hundred pounds

4. (usually used with a negative) in the slightest degree; at all

   I don't mind in the least

adverb

1. superlative of little

   they travel the least of all

adjective

1. of very little importance or rank

Word History and Origins

Origin of least¹

First recorded before 950; Middle English leest(e), Old English lǣst, superlative of lǣssa; less

Word History and Origins

Origin of least¹

Old English lǣst, superlative of lǣssa _less

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. at least, Also at the least.

   1. at the lowest estimate or figure.

      The repairs will cost at least $100.

   2. at any rate; in any case.

      You didn't get a good grade, but at least you passed the course.

2. not in the least, not in the smallest degree; not at all.

   I am not in the least concerned about the outcome of the World Series.

More idioms and phrases containing least

• at least
• in the least
• last but not least
• to say the least

Example Sentences

If Prince Andrew can be stripped of his honors and title with a few keystrokes, perhaps I can become Her Royal Highness Princess Brenda, or at least Duchess of something, with the same ease.

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Melissa caused at least 59 deaths and massive destruction across the Caribbean this week, notably in Jamaica where it roared ashore as a top-strength Category 5 hurricane, before striking eastern Cuba.

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Storm-ravaged communities in western Jamaica were facing dire straits Sunday, days after record-setting Hurricane Melissa left towns demolished and at least 28 people dead across the island.

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I’ve customized my AI with the instruction that at least half of its replies should be closed-ended, rather than ending, as it typically does, with a question, so that it’s easier to end the chat.

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At least one other perpetrator remains at large, French officials say.

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