Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Shortest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“
Add to dictionary

shortest

[หˆสƒษ”หrtษ™st ]

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'shortest'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'short' originates from the Old English 'sceort', meaning 'short or brief', which can be traced back to Proto-Germanic '*skurta-', meaning 'to cut off'. The formation of the comparative and superlative in English often involves the addition of -er and -est, respectively, hence 'short' becomes 'shorter' and 'shortest'. The transition of the term through various linguistic stages reflects a common practice in the evolution of English vocabulary, where base adjectives are modified to express different degrees of relativity. The usage of 'shortest' has gained prominence in various contexts, encompassing physical dimensions, time intervals, and even metaphorical references, signifying limited extent or quickness.

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.