Swarthiest: meaning, definitions and examples

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swarthiest

 

[ ˈswɔrθiəst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

describing color

Swarthiest refers to someone or something that is very dark, often in reference to skin tone or complexion. It indicates a deep tan or naturally darker skin. The term can also reflect a more generalized descriptor of someone's appearance, especially in terms of associated cultural connotations. The word often carries implications of health and outdoor lifestyles, as sun exposure typically deepens skin pigmentation.

Synonyms

brunet, dark, dusky, sallow

Examples of usage

  • She had the swarthiest complexion in the family.
  • The swarthiest figures in the painting drew my attention immediately.
  • He was the swarthiest among the models at the photoshoot.

Translations

Translations of the word "swarthiest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais escuro

🇮🇳 सबसे काला

🇩🇪 der dunkelste

🇮🇩 paling gelap

🇺🇦 найтемніший

🇵🇱 najciemniejszy

🇯🇵 最も暗い

🇫🇷 le plus sombre

🇪🇸 el más oscuro

🇹🇷 en karanlık

🇰🇷 가장 어두운

🇸🇦 الأكثر ظلمة

🇨🇿 nejtmavší

🇸🇰 najtmavší

🇨🇳 最黑的

🇸🇮 najtemnejši

🇮🇸 dimmasti

🇰🇿 ең қара

🇬🇪 ყველაზე ბნელი

🇦🇿 ən qaranlıq

🇲🇽 el más oscuro

Word origin

The word 'swarthy' has its roots in the Old English 'sweart,' which means 'black' or 'dark.' Over time, this evolved through Middle English as 'swarte,' maintaining the connotation of darkness. The suffix '-iest' is a standard English morphological addition used to form superlative adjectives, indicating the most extreme degree of an attribute. Thus, 'swarthiest' conveys a heightened state of darkness or tan compared to others. This term is often used in both literal and figurative senses, sometimes laden with socio-cultural implications regarding race and ethnicity. As societal perceptions of beauty and representation evolve, the usage of 'swarthiest' can reflect varying attitudes towards complexion and identity.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,599, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.