least
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for least, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Determiner — The smallest amount, extent, or degree; the superlative of "little."
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use least
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English lǣst, related to "less," both ultimately from a Germanic word meaning "smallest."
Full origin of least →Frequently asked questions
What does “least” mean?
The word “least” means the smallest amount, extent, or degree; the superlative of "little.". In plain terms, the smallest amount or lowest degree of something.
How do you pronounce “least”?
“Least” is pronounced leest (/list/ in IPA).
How do you use “least” in a sentence?
Here is “least” used in a sentence: “She put in the least effort of anyone on the team.”
What part of speech is “least”?
Depending on how it is used, “least” can be a determiner and an adverb.
Where does the word “least” come from?
The word “least” comes from Old English. From Old English lǣst, related to "less," both ultimately from a Germanic word meaning "smallest.".
Is “least” a common word?
“Least” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “least” have?
“Least” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the smallest amount, extent, or degree; the superlative of "little.".
What is the difference between 'least' and 'less'?
'Less' is the comparative form, used when comparing two things, as in 'this jar holds less than that one.' 'Least' is the superlative, used for the smallest of three or more, as in 'this jar holds the least of all.' Both come from 'little' and describe amounts you cannot count individually.
What is the difference between 'least' and 'fewest'?
'Least' is used with uncountable amounts, as in 'the least money' or 'the least time.' 'Fewest' is used with countable things, as in 'the fewest coins' or 'the fewest mistakes.' If you can count the items one by one, use 'fewest'; if you measure them as a mass, use 'least.'
What does 'at least' mean?
'At least' means 'no less than' a stated amount, so 'wait at least ten minutes' sets ten as the minimum. It also introduces a redeeming point or a correction, as in 'It rained, but at least it was warm.' The core idea is a lower limit or a saving grace.
What is the opposite of 'least'?
The opposite of 'least' is 'most,' the superlative meaning the greatest amount or degree. Where 'least' marks the smallest, as in 'the least effort,' 'most' marks the largest, as in 'the most effort.' For countable things, the matching pair is 'fewest' and 'most.'