Meaning of lesser in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈlɛsər/

   US accent

   How to pronounce lesser in American English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

   UK accent

   How to pronounce lesser in British English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

1. Classifying Adjective

   lesser

   Definitions

   1. smaller in size or amount or value

   Examples

   • « the lesser powers of Europe »
   • « the lesser anteater »

   Synonyms

   • small
   • little

2. Qualitative Adjective

   lesser

   Etymology

   Middle English: a double comparative, from less+ -er

   Definitions

   1. of less size or importance

   Examples

   • « the lesser anteater »
   • « the lesser of two evils »

   Antonyms

   • greater