superlative

²superlative

noun

Definition of SUPERLATIVE

1

a : the superlative degree of comparison in a language b : a superlative form of an adjective or adverb

2

: the superlative or utmost degree of something : acme

3

: a superlative person or thing

4

: an admiring sometimes exaggerated expression especially of praise

Examples of SUPERLATIVE

1. “Simplest” is the superlative of “simple.”

First Known Use of SUPERLATIVE

15th century

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile