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

That said, my siblings and I got tired of the whining and agreed that she would only have to pay the lesser of $3 million or the appraised price of the house.

From MarketWatch

Today, for example, you can take out a loan for the lesser of 50% of your account balance or $50,000 and pay it back incrementally from payroll deductions.

From MarketWatch

Analysts say fundamentals around precious metals appear to suggest lesser volatility and need for safe haven assets.

From The Wall Street Journal

Even in countries where central banks resisted the interference, Binder's research found that inflation tended to rise, albeit to a lesser degree, suggesting pressure alone could cause damage.

From BBC

As the banks report this week, Poonawala will be “capital markets momentum for Goldman and Morgan Stanley, but to a lesser degree for the rest.”

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor