As a Noun: 1. Something which is small in size or amount. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. Of something, to be small in size or amount. English = (be) little. 2. Of the number of things or people, to be smaller than desirable or than was expected. English = (be) few. As Modifier: 1. Used next to a verb or by itself to mean the period of time for the action is small. English = soon, briefly.