least

least · determiner

imported

Definitions

determiner

  1. 1.

    Smallest in amount, extent, or significance.

  2. 2.

    The smallest amount or quantity.

  3. 3.

    To the smallest extent or degree.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    at least — Not less than; at the minimum.
  • •
    at the very least — At the absolute minimum.
  • •
    least of all — Especially not.
  • •
    not in the least — Not at all.
  • •
    to say the least — Without exaggeration (used to understate).
  • •
    last but not least — Finally but equally important.
  • •
    path of least resistance — The easiest course of action.

Related words

Antonyms: greatest, maximum, most
See also: fewest, less, little, minimum, most
Synonyms: minimum, slightest, smallest

Etymology

From Old English læst, superlative of læssa ("less"), from Proto-Germanic laisistaz. Related to "less" and "little." The word has been used as a superlative since Old English times.