Foulest: meaning, definitions and examples

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foulest

 

[ faʊlɪst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

extreme degree

The term 'foulest' is the superlative form of the adjective 'foul,' which describes something that is extremely unpleasant, offensive, or disgusting. It can refer to a wide range of negative attributes, including smells, behaviors, or conditions. This word evokes strong feelings of aversion and is often used to express moral judgment about a person's actions or the quality of an environment. In literature and conversation, it serves to emphasize the degree of foulness to a highest level.

Synonyms

most disgusting, most offensive, most terrible, wickedest

Examples of usage

  • The foulest odor filled the room.
  • He committed the foulest act imaginable.
  • The water in the river was the foulest I've ever seen.
  • She spoke the foulest words during the argument.

Etymology

The word 'foul' originates from the Middle English 'foul,' which came from the Old English 'fūl,' meaning 'dirty, unclean, or rancid.' Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*fulaz,' which also meant 'foul' or 'rotten.' The superlative form, 'foulest,' emerged in the English language as a way to denote the most extreme example of foulness, maintaining the negative connotations associated with its root. Over the centuries, the word has evolved but continues to carry the weight of strong disapproval and disgust, often applied in both literal and figurative contexts, from describing physical conditions to moral transgressions.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,225 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.