superlative
Superlative (noun) means the form of an adjective or adverb that expresses the highest degree, such as biggest, best or most carefully. Example: “The superlative of good is best, not goodest.”
How to use superlative
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe "-est" form of a word, or something as good as it gets.
The grammatical sense is neutral and technical; the adjective sense is formal, complimentary praise.
When you see "the" plus an -est word, you are looking at a superlative: the fastest, the smallest, the most expensive.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of good is best, not goodest.
Etymology
From late Latin superlativus, from superlatus "carried beyond, exaggerated", from super- "beyond" and ferre "to carry".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for superlative
See all rhymes for superlative →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between comparative and superlative?
A comparative compares two things — bigger, more careful — while a superlative picks out the top of three or more — biggest, most careful. Use "the" before a superlative: the tallest building, not just tallest building.
How do you form superlatives in English?
One-syllable adjectives usually take -est (fast, fastest); adjectives of three or more syllables take "most" (beautiful, most beautiful). Two-syllable adjectives vary, though those ending in -y change to -iest (happy, happiest). Good, bad and far are irregular: best, worst, furthest.
Can you say "most best"?
No. That is a double superlative, and it is a standard error. A word is either marked with -est or with "most", never both.
What is the meaning of superlative?
"superlative" (noun) means the form of an adjective or adverb that expresses the highest degree, such as biggest, best or most carefully.