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LEST
Etymology
Conjunction
lest
For fear that; that not; in order that not; in case.
Synonym: before (informal)
After certain expressions denoting fear or apprehension: that without the negative particle.
Usage notes
The word lest is usually followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood in either the present or future tense.
For example: Lest they be captured, the soldiers fled from the battlefield.
Let him attend the ceremony which commemorates the achievements of his ancestors, lest he forget.
In the future tense, when it is differentiated from the present, it usually goes with should.
Let us get to the station early, lest we should miss our connection.
Anagrams
• ELTs, LETS, LTEs, TESL, elts, let's, lets, tels
Source: Wiktionary
Lest, v. i.
Definition: To listen. [Obs.] Chaucer. Spenser.
Lest, n. Etym: [See List to choose.]
Definition: Lust; desire; pleasure. [Obs.] Chaucer.
Lest, a.
Definition: Last; least. [Obs.] Chaucer.
Lest, conj. Etym: [OE.leste, fr. AS. l the less that, where that, who, which. See The, Less, a.]
1. For Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty. Prov. xx. 18. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth he standeth take heed lest he fall. I Cor. x. 12.
2. That (without the negative particle); -- after certain expressions denoting fear or apprehension. I feared Lest I might anger thee. Shak.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
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