lesser

American  

[les-er] / ˈlɛs ər /

adjective

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

   a lesser evil.

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adverb

1. less.

lesser British  

/ ˈlɛsə /

adjective

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

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Etymology

Origin of lesser

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

Compare meaning

How does lesser compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• lesser vs. lessor

Example Sentences

"It has become so apparent in the Premier League, not just used by so-called lesser teams," said Robinson.

From BBC

Her vocal stacks and counter-melodies are full of intricate detail; and her phrasing is exquisite, even on the jazz numbers where lesser pop singers would come unstuck.

From BBC

“It seems for Jews that there is a calculus of the lesser of evils,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Since then, the Bruins haven’t achieved that kind of dominance even against lesser opponents.

From Los Angeles Times

By that time it was seen as the lesser evil for the industry.

From Barron's

Related Words

• insignificant
• minor