lest Definition
with the intention of preventing something undesirable; to avoid the risk of.
Using lest: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lest" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She tiptoed through the house lest she wake up the baby.
Example
He spoke quietly, lest he be overheard by someone in the next room.
Example
I always take an umbrella with me, lest it rains.
Example
He left early, lest he miss his flight.
lest Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for lest
- in case
- for fear that
- so as not to
Origins of lest
from Old English 'thȳ lǣs', meaning 'in order that not'
Summary: lest in Brief
The word 'lest' [lest] is a conjunction used to indicate the intention of preventing something undesirable or avoiding the risk of it. It is often used in phrases like 'for fear that' and 'so as not to,' as in 'She tiptoed through the house lest she wake up the baby.' 'Lest' can also be replaced with 'in case' or 'just in case.'
