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

"I wouldn't say I striped it today, but at least I kind of kept the ball in front of me, and that's what you're trying to do on this golf course," Hovland said.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

At least they don’t reach out to clobber nearby cars.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

While the character has occasionally appeared in “SVU” episodes since his return, the end of “Organized Crime” likely means Meloni is done playing Stabler full time, at least for now.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

People must be at least 21 years old to gamble legally in the U.S.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

I was pleased that the dress was at least a nod to my own culture.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu