Unkindest: meaning, definitions and examples

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unkindest

 

[ ʌnˈkaɪndɛst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

general use

The word 'unkindest' is a comparative form of the adjective 'unkind.' It describes an action or behavior that is not only unkind but also more so than another instance of unkindness. This term often emphasizes the severity or particularly cruel aspect of someone's behavior. It's used to highlight actions that are harsh, mean, or lacking in empathy, especially in social contexts.

Synonyms

cruelest, harshest, meanest

Examples of usage

  • The unkindest remark came unexpectedly.
  • It was the unkindest cut of all.
  • In times of distress, the unkindest words can hurt the most.

Translations

Translations of the word "unkindest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais cruel

🇮🇳 सबसे निर्दयी

🇩🇪 unbarmherzigste

🇮🇩 paling kejam

🇺🇦 найжорстокіший

🇵🇱 najbardziej okrutny

🇯🇵 最も残酷な

🇫🇷 le plus cruel

🇪🇸 el más cruel

🇹🇷 en acımasız

🇰🇷 가장 잔인한

🇸🇦 الأكثر قسوة

🇨🇿 nejkrutější

🇸🇰 najkrutší

🇨🇳 最残忍的

🇸🇮 najbolj krut

🇮🇸 grimmasti

🇰🇿 ең қатыгез

🇬🇪 ყველაზე სასტიკი

🇦🇿 ən amansız

🇲🇽 el más cruel

Etymology

The word 'unkindest' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the base word 'kind,' which comes from the Old English 'cynd,' referring to one's nature or character. Over time, 'kind' has evolved to signify qualities such as generosity, warmth, and consideration for others. Using the prefix 'un-' transforms it into an expression of the opposite, denoting lack of compassion or kindness. The comparative suffix '-est' indicates that when someone is described as the 'unkindest,' they are being compared to others in terms of their cruel behavior or harsh treatment. This structure has been present in the English language for centuries, with its roots tracing back to various Germanic and Old Norse influences.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,036, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.