adj., adv., n., & prep.
adj. 1 smaller in extent, degree, duration, number, etc. (of less importance; in a less degree). 2 of smaller quantity, not so much (opp. MORE) (find less difficulty; eat less meat). 3 disp. fewer (eat less biscuits). 4 of lower rank etc. (no less a person than; James the Less).
adv. to a smaller extent, in a lower degree.
n. a smaller amount or quantity or number (cannot take less; for less than $10; is little less than disgraceful).
prep. minus (made $1,000 less tax). in less than no time joc. very quickly or soon. much (or still) less with even greater force of denial (do not suspect him of negligence, much less of dishonesty).
[ OE lssa (adj.), ls (adv.), f. Gmc ]