Mainest: meaning, definitions and examples
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mainest
[ ˈmeɪnɪst ]
least important
The term 'mainest' is a superlative form of 'main.' It is used to describe something that is considered the most important or primary. However, in standard English, 'mainest' is rarely used; more commonly, 'most main' or 'most important' is preferred. This form may be encountered in colloquial expressions or dialects but is generally not accepted in formal writing. Despite its uncommon status, it conveys a clear meaning of significance among other elements.
Synonyms
chief, most important, primary.
Examples of usage
- Her mainest concern was his health.
- The mainest goal was to finish on time.
Translations
Translations of the word "mainest" in other languages:
🇵🇹 principal
- maior
- mais importante
🇮🇳 मुख्य
🇩🇪 hauptsächlich
- bedeutend
- wichtig
🇮🇩 utama
🇺🇦 основний
- головний
- найважливіший
🇵🇱 główny
🇯🇵 主要な
🇫🇷 principal
- majeur
- le plus important
🇪🇸 principal
- mayor
- más importante
🇹🇷 ana
🇰🇷 주요한
🇸🇦 رئيسي
🇨🇿 hlavní
🇸🇰 hlavný
🇨🇳 主要的
🇸🇮 glavni
🇮🇸 aðal
🇰🇿 негізгі
🇬🇪 მთავარი
🇦🇿 əsas
🇲🇽 principal
Etymology
The word 'main' originates from the Middle English word 'mayn,' which is derived from the Old French 'main,' meaning 'hand, strength, or force.' This, in turn, can be traced back to Latin 'manus,' meaning 'hand.' The superlative 'mainest' likely developed as a natural extension of this form to denote the utmost importance or priority. Although 'mainest' has historical usage, it is now largely overshadowed by more standardized forms like 'most main' and is often viewed as non-standard in academic and formal settings. Its evolution reflects the dynamic nature of language, where informal speech influences formal writing habits.