Least

(leest), a. [A-S. läst, läsest, superl. of lässa, m., lässe, f. and neut., comparative of lytel, little.]

1Sense 1. Smallest; little beyond others, either in size or degree; as, the least insect; the least mercy.

2Sense 2. Of the smallest worth or importance; most insignificant.

☞ Least is often used without the noun to which it refers, especially in the phrases the least, in the least, i. e., in the least degree, and the like; as, he was not in the least injured. “I am the least of the apostles.” 1 Cor. xv. 9.

At least, or at the least, at the lowest estimate, or at the smallest concession or claim; to say, ask, or expect no more.

He who tempts, though vain, at least asperses The tempted with dishonor. Milton.

— Least squares (Math.), a method of deducing from a number of discordant observations of a phenomenon the result most probably correct, namely, a result such that the sum of the squares of the differences between it and the several individual observations or results shall be the least possible.

Synonyms—However; nevertheless; yet.

conj. Same as LEST, which see. [Obs.] Spenser.