Least

/liːst/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Smallest in size, amount, or degree.

He has the least amount of experience among the candidates.

Used to refer to a person or thing of the lowest rank or degree.

She is the least qualified for the position.

adverb

To the smallest extent or degree.

She was at least two hours late to the meeting.

Used to indicate that something is the smallest in size, amount, or degree.

This book is the least interesting one on the shelf.

At the minimum; not less than.

You should at least try to finish the project.

From Old English 'leost', meaning 'smallest.'

at least:

used to indicate that a situation is better than it could have been.

the least you can do:

a phrase indicating minimal effort or contribution required.

least of all:

especially not, or not at all.

No more than this amount.

You only need to pay the least.

Barely sufficient.

I'm at least getting by with this budget.