Least Meaning and Definition
Least
Pronunciation
/liːst/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A smallest or slightest part or amount of something.
Examples
- The company’s profits were a least a 10% increase from last year.
- She was consumed by the least bit of anxiety before the presentation.
Synonyms
- Minimum
- Smallest
Antonyms
- Maximum
- Largest
Etymology
The word “least” comes from the Old English word “lēast”, which is related to the Proto-Germanic word “*laihistaz”. This word is also the source of the modern English word “little”.
Usage Notes
The word “least” is often used to describe the smallest or slightest part of something, such as the least bit of trouble or the least amount of effort. It can also be used to convey a sense of the smallest or most remote possibility, such as “the least bit of doubt”.
Cultural References
The phrase “the least bit” is a common idiomatic expression that is used to convey a sense of slightness or minimality. For example, “I’m not the least bit interested in going to the party”. The phrase has been used in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- The least bit
- A least
- The least likely
Related Words or Phrases
- Minimum
- Smallest
- Little
- Least of all
Collocations
- The least expected
- The least suspected
- The least likely
Frequency of Use
The word “least” is a common word in modern English, with a moderate frequency of use. It is often used in formal and informal writing, as well as in spoken language.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “least” include “leest”, “llest”, and “lest”.