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American Dictionary of the English Language

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Least


LEAST, adjective

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

LEAST is often used without the noun to which it refers. 'I am the least of the apostles, ' that is, the least apostle of all the apostles. 1 Corinthians 15:9.

LEAST, adverb

1. In the smallest or lowest degree; in a degree below all others; as, to reward those who least deserve it.

At least

At the least To say no more; not to demand or affirm more than is barely sufficient; at the lowest degree. If he has not incurred a penalty, he at least deserves censure.

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

2. To say no more. Let useful observations be at least a part of your conversation.

The least in the smallest degree. His faculties are not in the least impaired.

At leastwise, in the sense of at least is obsolete.