Longest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
longest
[หlษหลgษst ]
Definition
duration measure
The term 'longest' refers to the greatest extent in time, distance, or length. It is often used to compare different lengths or durations, indicating which is the most prolonged. This term can apply to physical objects, such as the longest river or the longest road, as well as abstract concepts, like the longest wait or longest relationship. It highlights the superiority of one item regarding its length or time in comparison to others.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The Nile is considered the longest river in the world.
- This was the longest meeting I've ever attended.
- He took the longest route home to avoid traffic.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, the length of an object can measure how far it extends in space, making the concept of 'long' very relative.
- In terms of space-time, the longest journey could be understood in terms of the duration taken or the distance covered in the universe.
Literature
- Various poems and novels explore themes of 'longing', which is such a deep and enduring emotional experience that there can be 'longest' works dedicated to this theme.
- In storytelling, the longest tales often hold greater depth and detail, allowing for rich character development.
Pop Culture
- In 2020, the longest-running animated show in the U.S., 'The Simpsons', surpassed over 700 episodes, showcasing longevity in television.
- The longest music performance ever lasted over 13 hours and took place in Germany, captivating audiences with its endurance.
Cultural Aspects
- Cultural festivals often celebrate the longest day of the year, known as the summer solstice, with various rituals and traditions.
- In Japan, the longest recorded word, 'Tลkyล-to Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku-nan-chลme', showcases the beauty of complexity in language.
Origin of 'longest'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'long' comes from the Old English word 'lang', which meant 'tall' or 'far off'.
- Adding 'est' is a superlative form in English, making it denote the extreme length in comparison to others.
The word 'longest' is derived from the Old English 'lang', which has Germanic origins. The root of the word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*langaz' and has connections with related terms in other Germanic languages. Throughout its history, 'long' has been used to denote not just the physical length of an object but also duration and extent concerning time. The comparative form 'longer' and the superlative 'longest' evolved to offer a clear way to express comparisons. In Middle English, the spelling underwent changes, which influenced modern usage. The concept of measuring length or duration accurately has been significant in various cultures, which is reflected in the evolution of this term.