lest Hear it!

lest definition

lest (lest)

conjunction

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

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

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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