DictionaryvertexHighest point
noun

vertex

The highest point or top of something.

The doctor examines a small bump at the vertex of her head.

Etymology

The Latin noun already names a summit or top. English preserves that spatial meaning for the highest point.

More examples

  • Snow covers the vertex of the mountain.
  • The dome rises to a rounded vertex.
  • The helmet has extra padding over the vertex of the skull.

Forms

vertex · vertices · vertexes

Similar words

summit
Usually names the highest point of a mountain.
apex
Often emphasizes the pointed top of an object.
crown
Often names a rounded upper part, especially of the head.