a little

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."
2. adjective Slightly. I'm a little tired after going to the gym, but I can still meet you for dinner, don't worry!
See also: little
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

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.
See also: little
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

a little

Somewhat; a bit: felt a little better.
See also: little
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • muck-raking
  • a few
  • bulletproof
  • as (something) as the next man/woman/person
  • as as the next man
  • as good, well, etc. as the next person
  • as the next person
  • appropriate for
  • point-blank
  • precious little
References in periodicals archive
Oh, he drank a little bit every Satiddy night, but so did yo' Granpa and all the mens around here.
After a little while, Granma tole me say, "Granpa, Granma say you don't know nothing 'bout playing cards."
In the Family
NOVEMBER The first couple months of the school year may have been a little iffy for you, Twin, but you're getting into a groove.
Star signs
"A lot of guys seem to be getting into a little lull at the same time," A's manager Bob Geren said.
Long road home; Ortiz breaks out of slump just in time for Sox
Destress ahead of time by doing something that relaxes you, like a little yoga or an aromatherapy bath.
Finals analysis: the dreaded finals are here. Get great grades without pushing your brain into overload mode
10) You've developed a little something-something for Will, your guy friend.
It's fab to want the best, but are you taking the crush thing a little seriously?
Do you rush to crush? Boy cah-razy? Super-choosy? Or somewhere in the middle?
You'll give new challenges a spin--even if the idea gives you a little pause at first.
Are you up for a challenge? How go-for-it are you when it comes to trying new, exciting and challenging activities this summer? Take this quiz and find out!
b) a little surprise note your room hid in your lunchbox that read, "I luv U."
What's your gift-giving holiday groove? There's no time like the present to talk about presents!
Do your best, and consider plastering celeb heartthrob pics inside your locker to lighten things up a bit and give you a little lift between classes.
And not to contradict, but work in some hang-at-home time, too, so you can get to know each other a little better.
GL's astronomical astrological 2004 cast: want the scoop on boys, buds, grades and fam for the upcoming year? Search no more.... We've got your 2004-and-411!
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.
Star signs
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