adj., v., & n.
--adj.
1. a inconsiderable; of little significance (has a slight cold; the damage is very slight). b barely perceptible (a slight smell of gas). c not much or great or thorough, inadequate, scanty (a conclusion based on very slight observation; paid him slight attention).
2 slender, frail-looking (saw a slight figure approaching; supported by a slight framework).
3 (in superl., with neg. or interrog.) any whatever (paid not the slightest attention).
--v.tr.
1. treat or speak of (a person etc.) as not worth attention, fail in courtesy or respect towards, markedly neglect.
2 hist. make militarily useless, raze (a fortification etc.).
--n. a marked piece of neglect, a failure to show due respect.
Phrases and idioms:
not in the slightest not at all. put a slight upon sense
1. of v.
Derivatives:
slightingly adv. slightish adj. slightly adv. slightness n.
Etymology: ME slyght, sleght f. ON sl{eacute}ttr level, smooth f. Gmc