the world > relative properties > quantity > smallness of quantity, amount, or degree > [noun] > a small quantity or amount > some but not much (4)
With indefinite article. With of-phrase as complement. A small number of.
With more positive emphasis: a small quantity of; some, though not much. a little.
Const. of with adjective. Obsolete or archaic.
transferred. A small number or quantity; a few.