Definition

The smallest amount or degree; not much at all.

Example

She didn't show the slightest interest in the proposal.

Conversation

Did you notice the slightest change in the weather today?

Yeah, it felt a bit cooler than yesterday.

I thought it might rain, but it just seemed like a slight breeze instead.

Exactly! Just a little shift, nothing too drastic.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slightest → It is formed from "slight" (from Old English *slyht*, meaning small or insignificant) and the suffix "-est" (used to form the superlative degree). The word "slightest" means the smallest or least amount of something.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'small' or 'insignificant' ('slight') and remember that 'slightest' refers to the smallest degree of that quality.

Visually Confused Words