Pronunciation: /ˈlɛsər/

Definitions of lesser

adjective comparative form of the adjective 'little', used to indicate something of smaller size, amount, or importance

Example Sentences

A1 I have a lesser number of friends than my sister.

A2 She chose the lesser evil of the two options.

B1 The lesser of two evils is still not a good choice.

B2 I prefer the lesser-known restaurants in town for a more authentic experience.

C1 The artist's earlier works are considered lesser in quality compared to his later masterpieces.

C2 Despite being a talented musician, she often performs in lesser-known venues to maintain a sense of intimacy with her audience.

Examples of lesser in a Sentence

formal The lesser of the two evils must be chosen in this situation.

informal I'd go for the lesser option if I were you.

slang I always pick the lesser evil, it's just easier.

figurative Sometimes choosing the lesser path can lead to greater rewards.

Grammatical Forms of lesser

past tense

lessened

plural

lessers

comparative

lesser

superlative

least

present tense

lesses

future tense

will be lesser

perfect tense

has been lesser

continuous tense

is being lesser

singular

lesser

positive degree

less

infinitive

to lessen

gerund

lessening

participle

lessened

Origin and Evolution of lesser

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'lesser' originated from the Old English word 'lǣsra' which meant 'smaller' or 'inferior'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'lesser' has retained its original meaning of 'smaller' or 'inferior', but it has also come to be used in a more general sense to indicate something of lower importance or rank.