superlative
Grammar's ultimate form
Superlative describes the highest degree or quality—the best, worst, largest, or most extreme of its kind.
In grammar, the superlative form of an adjective or adverb expresses the maximum: tallest, most beautiful, least expensive.
As a noun, superlatives are expressions of extreme praise: The critics heaped superlatives on the film.
The word often carries a hint of exaggeration or hyperbole.
Exceptionally good or unpaid
- exceptionalNotably above the norm
- supremeHighest in authority
- preeminentSuperior to all others
- peerlessHaving no equal
unsurpassed · incomparable · unmatched · transcendent · masterful · exemplary · elite · distinguished
Uppermost point or culmination
- zenithPoint straight overhead
- acmeUltimate point of attainment
- peakUtmost height attained
- summitPeak or diplomatic gathering
climax · culmination · apogee · height · crest · vertex · highpoint · ne plus ultra
Involving measured contrast
- adjectiveNoun-describing word type
- adverbVerb or adjective modifier
- degreeUnit of measurement
- modifierWord altering another
inflection · gradation · intensifier · declension · positive · syntax · morphology · suffix
Overstating beyond reality
- overstatementClaim beyond the facts
- embellishmentDecorative addition or exaggeration
- amplificationIncrease in intensity
- dramatizationConverting events to performance
inflation · puffery · bombast · grandiosity · overemphasis · purple prose · tall tale · overkill
outstanding
Exceptionally good or unpaid
- exceptionalNotably above the norm
- supremeHighest in authority
- preeminentSuperior to all others
peerless · unsurpassed · incomparable · unmatched · transcendent · masterful · exemplary · elite · distinguished · magnificent
apex
Uppermost point or culmination
summit · climax · culmination · apogee · height · crest · vertex · highpoint · ne plus ultra · crown
comparative
Involving measured contrast
modifier · inflection · gradation · intensifier · declension · positive · syntax · morphology · suffix · irregular
exaggeration
Overstating beyond reality
- overstatementClaim beyond the facts
- embellishmentDecorative addition or exaggeration
- amplificationIncrease in intensity
dramatization · inflation · puffery · bombast · grandiosity · overemphasis · purple prose · tall tale · overkill · oversell
accolade
Expression of high esteem
- kudosPraise and honor
- plauditExpression of strong approval
- commendationFormal expression of approval
tribute · adulation · applause · glorification · laudation · flattery · rave · gushing · effusion · compliment
- morphologymorphemes, morpheme, affixes, affix, suffixes
- above averageexcellent, exceptional, outstanding, remarkable, impressive
- amazingastonishing, astounding, breathtaking, extraordinary, incredible
- comparisoncomparative, contrast, matching, positive, ranking
- excellenceexcellence, greatness, perfection, premium, superiority
- perfectionperfect, flawless, faultless, impeccable, perfection
superlativemediocre
Of only moderate quality
average · ordinary · unremarkable · unexceptional · run-of-the-mill
- grammatical superlativeForm expressing utmost degree
- superlative formsAdjectives at maximum degree