1
general::
1. Approximately, as in The truck will hold nine yards of dirt, more or less. This usage was first recorded in 1589. 2. Basically, essentially, as in We more or less agree on the substance of the letter. This usage was first recorded about 1225.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): more or less
somewhat; approximately; a phrase used to express vagueness or uncertainty. • Henry: I think this one is what I want, more or less. Clerk: A very wise choice, sir. • I spent more or less a half hour waiting for my flight to depart.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs