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lest

Lest is defined as something done in order to avoid an undesirable consequence.

(conjunction)

An example of lest is when you bring an umbrella in order to avoid getting wet.

See lest in Webster's New World College Dictionary

conjunction

for fear that; in case; so that . . . not: speak low lest you be overheard
Archaic that: used only after a word or words expressing fear: afraid lest he should fail us

Origin: ME leste < OE the læste < thy læs the, lit., by the less that < thy, instrumental of thæt, pron. + læs (see less) + the, particle

See lest in American Heritage Dictionary 4

conjunction

For fear that: tiptoed lest the guard should hear her; anxious lest he become ill.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English (thȳ) lǣs the, (whereby) less that, so that not

Origin: : lǣs, less; see less

Origin: + the, relative conjunction; see to- in Indo-European roots

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