lesser

less-er · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Smaller in size, amount, or degree; not so great or important.

  2. 2.

    Lower in rank, importance, or status.

  3. 3.

    (in names of animals and plants) Designating a species that is smaller or less prominent than a related one.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    the lesser of two evils — the less harmful of two bad options
  • •
    lesser-known — not widely recognized or famous
  • •
    to a lesser extent/degree — to a smaller degree
  • •
    lesser included offense — (law) a crime that is part of a more serious crime
  • •
    lesser light — a person or thing of secondary importance

Related words

Antonyms: greater, larger, major, superior
See also: greater, inferior, least, less, minor
Synonyms: inferior, lower, minor, smaller

Etymology

From Old English laessa, comparative of lytel ("little"). The double comparative form with -er became standard in Middle English, replacing the earlier form.