Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

the best

noun

Definition of the best

: the best person or thing
  • Out of all of my workers, he's the best.
  • I have one more gift for you, and I saved the best for last.
  • Our store sells nothing but the best.
  • They want the best for their children.
—often used with of
  • Even in the best of times, we had trouble paying our bills.
  • We were the best of friends.
  • I have a wonderful family and a great job, so I feel that I have the best of both worlds.

Word by Word Definitions

best play

  1. : superlative of good

  2. : excelling all others

  3. : most productive of good : offering or producing the greatest advantage, utility, or satisfaction

  1. : superlative of well

  2. : in the best (see 1best) way : to greatest advantage

  3. : most

  1. : the best (see 1best) state or part

  2. : one that is best

  3. : the greatest degree of good or excellence

  1. : to get the better of : outdo

  1. : had best (see 2best 1)

See the full definition of best

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up the best? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games