a little

1. noun A small amount. A: "Do you want dessert?" B: "I'll just have a little since I'm still pretty full from dinner." Come on, we have to have at least a little champagne to celebrate your promotion! I think we're just supposed to get a little snow today, nothing that intense.

2. adjective Slightly. I'm a little tired after going to the gym, but I can still meet you for dinner, don't worry! If the baby starts getting a little fussy, it's probably time for a diaper change. I've never done that yoga pose before, so, yeah, I'm a little sore from it.

a little

1. A small amount, as in Will you have some more meat? Yes, just a little. [Early 1400s]

2. Somewhat or rather, slightly, as in I am a little annoyed with Harry. [Late 1300s] For a synonym, see a bit.

a little

Somewhat; a bit: felt a little better.

See also: little

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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References in periodicals archive

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Reassure him that you will always be his daughter but that you're at an age where you like to wear a little lip gloss.

Dear Carol

He's polite, respectful and, even though he burps on command at lunch, he's a little mature for his age.

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Spin some island tunes, spread on a little self-tanner, and put a paper umbrella in your strawberry smoothie.

Star Signs

A little mascara and lip gloss complement your cute but simple 'do.

Scope out your Signature Scent