Fairest: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Originates from the Old English word 'fæger', which means beautiful or pleasing.
• The suffix '-est' is used in English to compare qualities, so it turns 'fair' into 'fairest' to indicate the highest degree.

Literature

• In the famous fairy tale 'Snow White', the phrase 'Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?' highlights the obsession with beauty.
• Shakespeare used a form of this word in his sonnets to describe unspeakable beauty and perfection in people.

Cultural Significance

• In various cultures, concepts of beauty have been linked to one's character and kindness, making 'fairest' not just about looks.
• The term is often used in beauty pageants and contests, emphasizing the importance of both physical attributes and virtues.

Philosophy

• Philosophers have debated the nature of beauty. The fairest thing is often seen as a representation of truth, goodness, and aesthetic pleasure.
• Some philosophical texts explore whether beauty is subjective (in the eye of the beholder) or objective (universal standards of beauty).

Art and Representation

• In art, the fairest forms are often represented through the use of symmetry and proportion, which are considered visually appealing.
• Artists like Botticelli and Klimt portrayed their subjects as 'fairest' through a blend of idealized beauty and symbolic meaning.

With rank #15,738, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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