left

left · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

1.
On or toward the side of a person or thing that is to the west when facing north.
2.
Relating to a left-wing political group or ideology.
3.
On or to the left side.
4.
The left-hand part, side, or direction.
5.
A left turn.
6.
**(the Left)** Political parties or groups favoring liberal, socialist, or radical views.
7.
Past tense and past participle of "leave."

Phrases & expressions

•
left and right — Everywhere; in all directions.
•
left field — An unexpected or unconventional area (from baseball).
•
two left feet — Clumsy, especially at dancing.
•
left, right, and center — In every direction; everywhere.
•
left over — Remaining after the rest has been used.
•
left behind — Abandoned; not progressing as fast as others.

Related words

Antonyms: right

See also: leave, leftover, remaining, right

Synonyms: port, remaining

Etymology

The directional sense is from Old English lyft ("weak, foolish"), later applied to the left hand as the weaker hand. The past tense of "leave" comes from Old English læfde. The political sense arose from the seating arrangement in the French National Assembly after 1789, where radicals sat on the left.