Least

Least - (Webster's 1828 Dictionary)

LEAST, a.

Smallest; little beyond others, either in size or degree; as the least insect; the least mercy.

Least is often used without the noun to which it refers. ""I am the least of the apostles,"" that is, the least apostle of all the apostles. 1 Cor 15.

LEAST, adv.

1. In the smallest or lowest degree; in a degree below all others; as, to reward those who least deserve it.

At least,

At the least, To say no more; not to demand or affirm more than is barely sufficient; at the lowest degree. If he has not incurred a penalty, he at least deserves censure.

He who tempts, though vain, at least asperses the tempted with dishonor.

2. To say no more. Let useful observations be at least a part of your conversation.

The least, in the smallest degree. His faculties are not in the least impaired.

At leastwise, in the sense of at least, is obsolete.