Hindmost - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

position or location

The term 'hindmost' refers to the position that is furthest to the back or rear in a given context. It is often used to describe objects, people, or animals that are at the back of a line, group, or formation. In some contexts, it might imply being left behind or less visible compared to others ahead. The word can be utilized in both literal and figurative senses.

Synonyms

backmost, final, last, rear.

Examples of usage

The hindmost runner struggled to keep up with the rest of the group.
In the parade, the hindmost float was barely visible to the crowd.
The soldiers positioned themselves with the hindmost man guarding the rear.

Interesting Facts

Usage in Language

Commonly used in literature to depict the last position in a race or a line.
The term can also describe emotions or feelings that are farthest from the forefront of one's thoughts.
Used metaphorically, it can signify neglect or being forgotten, as in 'the concerns of the hindmost.'

Cultural References

In classic literature, characters often become defined by their position in a group, with the hindmost often representing the underdog.
In military contexts, the term refers to those who remain behind, often for strategic reasons.
In some cultures, the idea of being hindmost can symbolize wisdom, suggesting that those at the back have a broader view of the whole situation.

Psychology

Being in the hindmost position may evoke feelings of exclusion or invisibility for individuals.
Research suggests that people in the back of a group can feel less influence or power compared to those at the front.
However, the hindmost position can provide a unique perspective, allowing for insights that others may miss.

Origin of 'hindmost'

Main points about word origin

The word 'hind' comes from Old English 'hinda,' meaning 'behind' or 'back.'
Historically, 'most' originates from the Proto-Germanic word 'maizaz,' which means 'greater' or 'most important.'
Combining 'hind' and 'most,' it signifies something that is 'backmost' or at the extreme rear.

The word 'hindmost' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the combination of the word 'hind,' meaning 'at the back or rear,' and 'most,' denoting 'farthest away' or 'most distant.' The term has been used in various forms since the 15th century, often in contexts related to position or location. Initially used in literary texts to describe characters in narratives or descriptions of scenes, it gradually found its way into regular usage. Its structure mirrors similar terms in English that combine a directional word with a superlative suffix, helping to convey relative position effectively. The development of the word highlights the linguistic tendency to create compound words for more precise meanings.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,599 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32596 decamped
32597 whoops
32598 shipwright
32599 hindmost
32600 untranslatable
32601 uncomplaining
32602 cantered
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Hindmost Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations