/leest/ , adj., a superl. of little with less or lesser as compar.
1. smallest in size, amount, degree, etc.; slightest: He gave the least amount of money of anyone.
2. lowest in consideration, position, or importance.
n.
3. something that is least; the least amount, quantity, degree, etc.
4. South Midland U.S. the youngest in a family or group.
5. at least ,
a. at the lowest estimate or figure: The repairs will cost at least $100.
b. at any rate; in any case: You didn't get a good grade, but at least you passed the course. Also, at the least .
6. not in the least , not in the smallest degree; not at all: I am not in the least concerned about the outcome of the World Series.
adv.
7. superl. of little with less as compar. to the smallest extent, amount, or degree: That's the least important question of all. He talks least.
[ bef. 950; ME leest ( e ), OE laest, superl. of laessa LESS ]