A LITTLE

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does a little mean? 

• A LITTLE (adverb)
  The adverb A LITTLE has 1 sense:

1. to a small degree; somewhat

  Familiarity information: A LITTLE used as an adverb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• A LITTLE (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

To a small degree; somewhat

Synonyms:

a bit; a little; a trifle

Context example:

a trifle smaller

 Context examples 

In the corner, stooping over a desk, there sat what appeared to be a little girl.

(The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

"Yes, a little bit," he confessed.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

It was a little, single-roomed hut, sixteen feet by ten.

(The Return of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

I have had planes delayed, but if I have my “office” with me—my computer—I am happy as a little clam.

(AstrologyZone.com, by Susan Miller)

But I do not approve of this derivation, which seems to be a little strained.

(Gulliver's Travels into several remote nations of the world, by Jonathan Swift)

The cat-like springiness in his tread was a little more pronounced than usual, and his eyes were bright and snappy.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

His lips trembled a little, so that the rough thatch of brown hair which covered them was visibly agitated. His tongue even strayed out to moisten them.

(Love of Life and Other Stories, by Jack London)

Just now she was quite upset by a little thing which I did not much heed, though I am myself very fond of animals.

(Dracula, by Bram Stoker)

Holmes traced his way to the farther side of this and lay down once more upon his face with a little cry of satisfaction.

(The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

Have a little compassion on my nerves.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)