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Slowest: meaning, definitions and examples

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slowest

 

[ ˈsloʊ.əst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

degree of speed

The term 'slowest' is the superlative form of the adjective 'slow.' It describes something that has the least speed or is the least fast compared to others. It is often used in contexts where varying rates of motion are discussed, such as in racing, walking, or other activities that involve movement. For example, if comparing vehicles, the one that moves at the lowest speed would be considered the slowest. Additionally, 'slowest' can apply to processes that take the longest time to complete.

Synonyms

least fast, lethargic, sluggish

Examples of usage

  • The tortoise is the slowest land animal.
  • He finished the race as the slowest runner.
  • The internet connection was the slowest we've experienced.
  • During winter, the growth of plants is the slowest time of year.

Translations

Translations of the word "slowest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais lento

🇮🇳 सबसे धीमा

🇩🇪 langsamste

🇮🇩 terlambat

🇺🇦 найповільніший

🇵🇱 najwolniejszy

🇯🇵 最も遅い

🇫🇷 le plus lent

🇪🇸 el más lento

🇹🇷 en yavaş

🇰🇷 가장 느린

🇸🇦 الأبطأ

🇨🇿 nejpomalejší

🇸🇰 najpomalší

🇨🇳 最慢的

🇸🇮 najpočasnejši

🇮🇸 hægri

🇰🇿 ең баяу

🇬🇪 ყველაზე ნელი

🇦🇿 ən yavaş

🇲🇽 el más lento

Etymology

The word 'slow' comes from the Old English 'slaw,' which meant 'sluggish' or 'slothful.' This term has roots in Proto-Germanic *slawaz, which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages emphasizing a lack of speed or quickness. Over time, 'slow' evolved to incorporate various meanings related to the pace of actions, processes, or movements. The addition of the '-est' suffix to form 'slowest' follows a common pattern in English for creating superlative adjectives. This morphological formation allows speakers to compare three or more subjects, indicating one that displays the least amount of speed. The usage of superlatives is prevalent in everyday conversations, education, literature, and even sports contexts, reflecting the natural inclination to assess and rank things based on their qualities, including speed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,806, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.