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

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

From BBC

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers have done well against lesser teams such as the Titans, but tougher games ahead will test their playoff potential.

From Los Angeles Times

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers have done well against lesser teams such as the Titans, but tougher games ahead will test their playoff potential.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Here’s an attempt to sort the biggest concerns from lesser ones.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor