1. A file pager program, similar to more(1) Less is a program similar to more (1), but which allows backward movement in the file as well as forward movement. Also, less does not have to read the entire input file before starting, so with large input files it starts up faster than text editors like vi (1). Less uses termcap (or terminfo on some systems), so it can run on a variety of terminals. There is even limited support for hardcopy terminals. Homepage: http://www.greenwoodsoftware.com/less/ From Debian 3.0r0 APT

2. The less utility is a text file browser that resembles more, but has more capabilities. Less allows you to move backwards in the file as well as forwards. Since less doesn't have to read the entire input file before it starts, less starts up more quickly than text editors (for example, vi). You should install less because it is a basic utility for viewing textfiles, and you'll use it frequently. From Mandrake 9.0 RPM

3. The less utility is a text file browser that resembles more, but has more capabilities. Less allows you to move backwards in the file as well as forwards. Since less does not have to read the entire input file before it starts, less starts up more quickly than text editors. From Redhat 8.0 RPM

4. opposite of more From whatis