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 At leastwise, in the sense of at least is obsolete.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI