Superlative

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /suːˈpɜː.lÉ™.tɪv/, /sjuːˈpɜː.lÉ™.tɪv/
• US IPA: /suˈpɝː.lÉ™.tɪv/

Origin

From Middle English superlatyf, from Old French superlatif, from Late Latin superlātīvus, from Latin superlātus ("extravagant, of hyperbole"), past participle of superfero ("carry over"), from super ("above") + fero ("bear, carry").

Full definition of superlative

Noun

1. The highest extent or degree of something.
2. (grammar) The form of an adjective that expresses which of more than two items has the highest degree of the quality expressed by the adjective; in English, formed by appending "-est" to the end of the adjective (for some short adjectives only) or putting "most" before it.The superlative of "big" is "biggest"
3. (informal) An adjective used to praise something exceptional.Daniel is amazing, wonderful, fantastic, and many other superlatives I can’t think of right now!

Synonyms

• (highest degree) acme, peak

Related terms

• superlative degree

Adjective

1. Exceptionally good; of the highest quality; superb.
2. (grammar) Of or relating to a superlative.

Usage notes

Rather formal, reflecting its Latin etymology; more colloquial alternatives include exceptional, fabulous, above and beyond, and others.

Synonyms

• (exceptionally good) above and beyond, exceptional, extraordinary, superb