least

[leest]

adjective

1. smallest in size, amount, degree, etc.; slightest.

   He gave the least amount of money of anyone.

2. lowest in consideration, position, or importance.

noun

1. something that is least; the least amount, quantity, degree, etc.

2. South Midland U.S.,  the youngest in a family or group.

adverb

1. to the smallest extent, amount, or degree.

   That's the least important question of all. He talks least.

least

/ liːst /

determiner

1. 1. the superlative of little

      you have the least talent of anyone

   2. ( as pronoun; functioning as sing )

      least isn't necessarily worst

2. 1. if nothing else

      you should at least try

   2. at the least

3. at the minimum

   at the least you should earn a hundred pounds

4. (usually used with a negative) in the slightest degree; at all

   I don't mind in the least

adverb

1. superlative of little

   they travel the least of all

adjective

1. of very little importance or rank

Word History and Origins

Origin of least¹

First recorded before 950; Middle English leest(e), Old English lǣst, superlative of lǣssa; less

Word History and Origins

Origin of least¹

Old English lǣst, superlative of lǣssa _less

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. at least, Also at the least.

   1. at the lowest estimate or figure.

      The repairs will cost at least $100.

   2. at any rate; in any case.

      You didn't get a good grade, but at least you passed the course.

2. not in the least, not in the smallest degree; not at all.

   I am not in the least concerned about the outcome of the World Series.

More idioms and phrases containing least

• at least
• in the least
• last but not least
• to say the least

Example Sentences

His thoughtful and riveting performance ensures that we never stop pulling for Andy, even after he dooms the crew’s most vulnerable but least interesting member.

From Salon

If Republican leaders in Washington had hoped that a month-long congressional recess would help the Jeffrey Epstein controversy die down, this week's frenzy of activity has dashed those hopes - at least for now.

From BBC

With the safety net of a quarter-final place already assured, they will road-test against, on world ranking at least, their strongest opponents so far.

From BBC

At least 64,231 people have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since then, according to the territory's health ministry.

From BBC

Similarly, in the Tuffah neighbourhood - where Israeli strikes killed at least eight people on Thursday, according to the Hamas-run Civil Defence agency - more buildings have been levelled.

From BBC