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

Jurors did convict him of a lesser charge of lying to investigators when, in a 2020 interview with the Fed’s internal-watchdog office, he denied sharing sensitive information outside the central bank.

From The Wall Street Journal

The nomination essentially represents choosing the lesser of two concerns rather than an affirmatively strong selection.

From Los Angeles Times

However, sceptics argue they have beaten title contenders before and it is against the top flight's lesser lights that they tend to struggle.

From BBC

He also pointed out that only 3% of criminal cases went to a jury trial, adding "there will be a slightly lesser percent after these changes, but that's the change that we're talking about."

From BBC

But even a lesser punishment could amount to a death sentence for the 78-year-old Mr. Lai, whose health is deteriorating after years in solitary confinement in a cell with the window blocked.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor