the character <, denoting having a smaller amount or number.

(predicative) inferior in consideration, rank, or importance

Alternative spelling of more or less

Alternative form of nonetheless

Approximately. / Almost.

Lacking a shell. / Unprotected, vulnerable.

Contextual comparative. Modifies another adjective (to which the "so" is a direct anaphoric reference), indicating a lesser degree of the quality in question.

(paradox, oxymoron) That which is of smaller quantity could be of higher quality.

(idiomatic) Let alone; to say nothing of.

even less