Furthest
adjectiveAt the greatest distance in space, time, or degree; the most far.
How to spell furthest
8 letters · 2 syllables
How to pronounce furthest
Say the part in capitals loudest.
What does furthest mean?
- adjectiveAt the greatest distance in space, time, or degree; the most far.
Furthest in a sentence
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The cabin stood at the furthest edge of the property, well beyond the orchard.
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Of all the candidates, she travelled the furthest to reach the interview.
Where does furthest come from?
Language of origin: Germanic
This word is a native English superlative descended from Old English, built ultimately on the root that also gives us 'forth', meaning 'forward' or 'onward'. The comparative form 'further' grew up alongside 'farther', and over time the spelling with -th- attached itself to ideas of degree and progression as well as plain distance. 'Furthest' is simply 'further' with the superlative ending -est, marking the very greatest extent. The intrusive -th- (which 'far' itself does not have) is the spelling trap: writers reach for 'farthest' or wonder where the 'h' belongs. In modern usage 'furthest' is favoured for figurative degree (the furthest extent of patience) while 'farthest' leans towards literal distance, though both are widely accepted for either meaning.
How the word is built
- furth- (from Old English furthor/forth: forward, onward)
- -est (superlative suffix)
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