Darkest: meaning, definitions and examples

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darkest

 

[ˈdɑrkəst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

color/shade

Darkest refers to the deepest or most intense shade of a color, usually black or a color that has a low lightness value. It is often used to describe the absence of light, where visibility is minimal. In various contexts, it can imply a sense of mystery or danger. The term can also be figuratively used to describe something that is morally or emotionally bleak.

Synonyms

blackest, deepest, most shadowy.

Examples of usage

  • The darkest part of the forest.
  • She wore the darkest shade of blue.
  • The painting depicted the darkest times of history.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'dark' traces back to Old English 'deorc,' meaning hidden or obscure.
  • Over time, the suffix '-est' added to 'dark' creates a superlative form, indicating the most extreme state of darkness.

Literature

  • Many classic poems and stories explore themes of darkness to symbolize fear, unknown, and evil.
  • Shakespeare often used darkness to convey tension and mood, such as in 'Macbeth' where night symbolizes treachery.

Art

  • In art, darker shades are used to create depth and contrast, enhancing the visual impact of a piece.
  • Famous painters like Caravaggio mastered the technique of 'chiaroscuro,' which emphasizes the contrast between light and shadow.

Psychology

  • The concept of darkness can evoke feelings of fear or anxiety, a common theme in horror genres due to its association with the unknown.
  • In some studies, exposure to darker environments can lead to greater introspection and creativity.

Astronomy

  • The vast expanse of space is often referred to as 'dark,' home to black holes and phenomena where no light escapes.
  • Dark matter is a critical concept in astrophysics, representing a mysterious substance that makes up most of the universe but cannot be seen directly.

Translations

Translations of the word "darkest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais escuro

🇮🇳 सबसे अंधेरा

🇩🇪 dunkelste

🇮🇩 tergelap

🇺🇦 найтемніший

🇵🇱 najciemniejszy

🇯🇵 最も暗い

🇫🇷 le plus sombre

🇪🇸 el más oscuro

🇹🇷 en karanlık

🇰🇷 가장 어두운

🇸🇦 الأكثر ظلمة

🇨🇿 nejtemnější

🇸🇰 najtmavší

🇨🇳 最黑暗的

🇸🇮 najtemnejši

🇮🇸 myrkrasta

🇰🇿 ең қараңғы

🇬🇪 ყველაზე მუქი

🇦🇿 ən qaranlıq

🇲🇽 el más oscuro

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,573, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.