least
/liːst
/determiner & pronoun (usually the least)
Smallest in amount, extent, or significance: [as determiner]: who has the least money? he never had the least idea what to do about it [as pronoun]: how others see me is the least of my worries it’s the least I can do...
- Thomson's theorem states that electrically charged particles arrange themselves so as to have the least energy.
- Everyone knows what has to be done and how it is to be done with the least civil disruption.
Synonyms
slightest, smallest, minimum, minimal, minutest, tiniest, littlest
adverb
To the smallest extent or degree: my best routine was the one I had practised the least turning up when he was least expected only the least expensive lot sold I never hid the truth, least of all from you...
- As the drivers of old bangers are the least able to afford to invest heavily in a new car, this policy seems unfair.
- Paragliders are not cheap, though they represent one of the least expensive ways to get into the air.
- Those who are entitled to tax credits are the least able to afford this delay.
adjective
Used in names of very small animals and plants, e.g. least shrew.
Phrases
at least
at the least (or very least)
least said, soonest mended
not in the least
not least
to say the least (of it)
Origin
Old English lǣst, lǣsest, of Germanic origin; related to less.