Shortest: meaning, definitions and examples

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shortest

 

[ˈʃɔːrtəst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

comparative form

Shortest is the comparative form of short, used to describe something that has less length or duration than another thing, or that is the least long in a group. It is often used to compare height, length, or time.

Synonyms

briefest, least long, minimus.

Examples of usage

  • He is the shortest player on the team.
  • This is the shortest route to the destination.
  • She is known for her shortest stories.
  • The shortest day of the year is around December 21.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'shortest' comes from Old English 'sceort,' which means brief or small.
  • In many languages, the word for 'short' has similar roots, indicating a common understanding of the concept across cultures.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, the concept of 'shortest' often relates to the shortest distance between two points, which is a straight line.
  • The Pythagorean Theorem helps in finding the shortest path in two-dimensional spaces, emphasizing its significance in various real-world applications.

Physics

  • 'Shortest' can also refer to wavelength in wave physics, where shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy.
  • In relativity, the concept of shortest distance may differ depending on gravitational fields, showcasing the flexibility of space.

Literature

  • Short stories are a respected literary form, focusing on brevity to create enjoyment and provoke thought in a concise manner.
  • Many famous authors, like Edgar Allan Poe, excelled in writing short tales that captivated readers with their plots and depth.

Pop Culture

  • In the realm of sports, the term 'shortest' can evoke images of record-breaking performances, like the quickest sprint or shortest competition duration.
  • Television shows with shorter episodes often receive praise for their fast-paced storytelling, making 'shortest' an appealing concept in media.

Translations

Translations of the word "shortest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais curto

🇮🇳 सबसे छोटा

🇩🇪 am kürzesten

🇮🇩 terpendek

🇺🇦 найкоротший

🇵🇱 najkrótszy

🇯🇵 最短の

🇫🇷 le plus court

🇪🇸 el más corto

🇹🇷 en kısa

🇰🇷 가장 짧은

🇸🇦 الأقصر

🇨🇿 nejkratší

🇸🇰 najkratší

🇨🇳 最短的

🇸🇮 najkrajši

🇮🇸 styst

🇰🇿 ең қысқа

🇬🇪 მხოლოდ მოკლე

🇦🇿 ən qısa

🇲🇽 el más corto

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,363 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.