Little

/ˈlɪt.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small amount or degree.

Can you give me a little of your time?

A small child.

The little ran towards her father excitedly.

adjective

Small in size, amount, or degree.

She has a little dog that fits in her handbag.

Not much; a small amount.

I have a little time to spare before the meeting.

Young; not old.

The little girl smiled as she played in the park.

adverb

To a small extent or degree.

It's a little difficult to explain.

Somewhat.

She looks a little tired today.

From Middle English 'litel', from Old English 'lytel', from Proto-West Germanic 'lutil', related to Dutch 'klein' and German 'klein'.

a little bird told me

I heard a rumor.

little by little

Gradually; steadily.

little does he know

He is unaware of something significant.

little things matter

Small details are important.

littleness

The quality of being small.

littler

Smaller in size or amount; comparative form of little.

littlest

Smallest in size or amount; superlative form of little.

Used to express something cute or endearing.

Look at that little baby!

Referring to something minimal.

I just need a little help.