Upmost: meaning, definitions and examples

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upmost

 

[ˈʌp.məʊst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in importance

Of the greatest or highest degree; the most extreme or ultimate.

Synonyms

greatest, highest, maximum, ultimate, utmost.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
upmost

Use this word to describe something located at the very top of a physical space.

  • He reached for the upmost shelf to grab the jar.
  • The birds built their nest in the upmost branches of the tree.
utmost

Ideal for expressing the highest degree of effort or importance, often in formal or serious contexts.

  • We should handle this matter with the utmost care.
  • Their utmost priority is the safety of the passengers.
highest

Best suited for describing the peak or most elevated position, either physically or metaphorically.

  • Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world.
  • He achieved the highest score in the exam.
greatest

Ideal when referring to the highest degree in terms of magnitude or quality, often used in subjective or evaluative contexts.

  • She has the greatest respect for her mentor.
  • Winning the championship was his greatest achievement.
maximum

Appropriate when discussing numerical limits or capacity, often in technical or mathematical contexts.

  • The car can reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
  • Please fill the tank to its maximum capacity.
ultimate

Best used to describe something as the final or most extreme, often related to an end goal or the best possible outcome.

  • Climbing Mount Everest was her ultimate dream.
  • The ultimate decision lies with the board of directors.

Examples of usage

  • The safety of the passengers is of upmost importance.
  • She showed the upmost care in handling the delicate equipment.
  • We must give upmost priority to this issue.
  • The upmost level of security measures should be implemented.
  • It is crucial to show upmost respect for the local customs.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'upmost' has roots in Old English, combining 'up' which means above, with 'most', indicating the highest degree.
  • It is often used interchangeably with 'utmost', but 'upmost' focuses on physical height.
  • The term has been in use since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the English language.

Literature

  • The term has been used in notable literary works to emphasize importance or position, such as in poetry where it can evoke imagery of heights.
  • In Shakespeare's works, similar terms are often employed to convey themes of elevation, both literal and metaphorical.
  • Classic novels frequently use 'upmost' to describe characters in positions of power or success.

Psychology

  • 'Upmost' can be associated with prioritizing goals and aspirations, reflecting one’s highest ambitions.
  • In focus groups, individuals often refer to their upmost concerns, revealing what matters most to them in various aspects of life.
  • The concept of raising the upmost issues in discussions can lead to more effective problem-solving and decision-making.

Cultural Significance

  • Certain cultures place a high value on elders or leaders, often referring to them in terms that imply they hold the upmost status.
  • In competitive environments, such as sports or academics, achieving an upmost position is celebrated as the pinnacle of success.
  • Traditional beliefs in some cultures emphasize reaching an upmost level of spirituality or connection with the divine.

Science

  • In geology, the 'upmost' layer of soil reveals much about the environment and climate of a region, reflecting changes over time.
  • Astronomy often discusses the upmost layer of celestial bodies when describing their structure or atmosphere.
  • In engineering, the term can relate to the design principles where the upmost features play a significant role in stability and strength.

Translations

Translations of the word "upmost" in other languages:

🇵🇹 máximo

🇮🇳 उच्चतम

🇩🇪 höchste

🇮🇩 tertinggi

🇺🇦 найвищий

🇵🇱 najwyższy

🇯🇵 最高の

🇫🇷 le plus élevé

🇪🇸 máximo

🇹🇷 en yüksek

🇰🇷 최고의

🇸🇦 أعلى

🇨🇿 nejvyšší

🇸🇰 najvyšší

🇨🇳 最高的

🇸🇮 najvišji

🇮🇸 hæstur

🇰🇿 ең жоғары

🇬🇪 უმაღლესი

🇦🇿 ən yüksək

🇲🇽 máximo