fewer

[ fyoo-er ]

adjective

1. of a smaller number:

   fewer words and more action.

pronoun

1. (used with a plural verb) a smaller number:

   Fewer have come than we hoped.

Confusables Note

See less.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fewer¹

Middle English feue, feawe. fewe fewere, Old English fēawera, genitive plural of fēawa few; -er ⁴( def )

Example Sentences

They found fewer tumors in mice receiving the probiotic compared with mice given immunotherapy drugs systemically.

From Science Daily

Millions of consumers have switched to streaming platforms that offer fewer commercials, or none at all, and lower subscription prices.

From Los Angeles Times

Sustainable alternatives, such as dry handling or pasture-based systems, which generate far fewer pollutants, remain unsupported.

From Los Angeles Times

Now, fewer than 3,000 acres are in production in the state for commercial sale.

From Los Angeles Times

It found that fewer exceptions were made in the months after the general election "than is typical in a similar length of time".

From BBC