lesser

[ les-er ]

adjective

1. smaller, as in size or importance; inferior:

   a lesser evil.

adverb

1. less ( def 1 ).

lesser

/ ˈlɛsə /

adjective

1. not as great in quantity, size, or worth

Word History and Origins

Origin of lesser¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English lasser, lesser; less, -er ⁴

Example Sentences

There is also ministerial discretion to deport foreign nationals for lesser offences if it is “conducive to the public good”.

From BBC

The 16-year-old boy, who was 15 at the time, was originally charged with murder but admitted the lesser charge of culpable homicide.

From BBC

Judge Sutcliffe told Wolfe he was passing a lesser sentence on him only because of his great age.

From BBC

Antwoine Williams is facing felony charges of civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding police, along with several lesser misdemeanour charges.

From BBC

Energy-rich Saudi Arabia is slowly strengthening its stronghold of boxing and paying fighters – some with lesser profiles than Taylor or Serrano – handsomely.

From BBC

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor