least

American  

[leest] / list /

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.

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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.

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.

least British  

/ 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

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adverb

1. superlative of little

   they travel the least of all

adjective

1. of very little importance or rank

least More Idioms  

More idioms and phrases containing least

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

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Etymology

Origin of least

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

Example Sentences

New IPOs also generally must wait at least 12 months before becoming eligible for inclusion.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

In its talks with Mexico, the US has asked that vehicles made in North America contain at least 50% American-made content, according to Reuters.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

To simplify, Morgan Stanley also broke out the names with market values of at least $10 billion.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

Traders in the overnight-index swap market now anticipate a single quarter-point Bank of Canada rate increase by end of the 2026, as opposed to at least two rate increases that were priced in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Tante Bep, with her perpetual, disapproving scowl, was the oldest of the aunts and the one we children liked least.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom