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 Cor 15.
LEAST, adv.
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At leastwise, in the sense of at least, is obsolete.
