adjective / noun

superlative

soo-PUR-luh-tiv/suːˈpɜːrlətɪv/

Representing the highest degree of a quality.

The prize rose's superlative form outshines the two less regular blooms.

A flower-show display contrasts one exceptionally full, beautifully formed rose with two smaller, less regular roses; a gold prize rosette marks the outstanding bloom as the best of the group.

Etymology

superLatinbeyond

+latLatinraise, carry

+iveLatinforming adjectives

The underlying image is “carrying beyond,” reflected in the Latin sense “exaggerated.” Applied to quality or degree, this becomes the idea of surpassing others and reaching the highest level.

In context

National Trust for Historic Preservation41:10

I now have the privilege of presenting the national trust's highest honor the Louise Dupont crown and shield award for superlative achievement in the field of historic preservation

PastForward 2015: Opening Plenary & preservationFUTURE TrustLive

More examples

Her superlative performance brings the audience to its feet.
“Tallest” is the superlative of “tall.”
The reviews are full of superlatives praising the chef's skill.

Forms

superlative · superlatives

superlatively adverb — To an exceptionally high or outstanding degree.

Similar words

excellent: Means very good, without necessarily implying the highest degree.
outstanding: Emphasizes standing out from others through notably superior quality.