adj., n., & adv.
adj. 1 smallest, slightest, most insignificant. 2 (prec. by the; esp. with neg.) any at all (it does not make the least difference). 3 (of a species or variety) very small (least tern).
n. the least amount.
adv. in the least degree. at least 1 at all events; anyway; even if there is doubt about a more extended statement. 2 (also at the least) not less than. in the least (or the least) (usu. with neg.) in the smallest degree; at all (not in the least offended). least common denominator, multiple see DENOMINATOR, MULTIPLE. to say the least (or the least of it) used to imply the moderation of a statement (that is doubtful to say the least).
[ OE lst, lsest f. Gmc ]