LONGEST Meaning and
Definition
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Longest is an adjective that is used to describe something that has the greatest length in comparison to others. It is derived from the word "long," which refers to a measurement of distance or extension from one point to another. When something is labeled as the longest, it means that it surpasses all others in length, duration, or size.
The term "longest" can be used in various contexts. For instance, it can be applied to physical objects like rivers, bridges, buildings, or roads when they possess the greatest distance or span. In terms of time, the longest may refer to the period with the greatest duration, such as the longest day of the year or the longest eclipse.
Furthermore, "longest" can be utilized in figurative or metaphorical senses to describe things that exceed others in terms of time, duration, or quantity. For instance, the longest novel may refer to a book that has the largest number of pages or the most extended storyline. Similarly, the longest route may indicate a journey that covers the greatest distance.
Overall, when something is referred to as the longest, it signifies that it possesses an extent or duration that surpasses all others in its category, making it the most extended, time-consuming, or profound in comparison to its peers.
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Superl. deg. of long; of the greatest extent.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for LONGEST *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for LONGEST
Etymology of LONGEST
The word "longest" is derived from the root word "long", which comes from the Old English word "lang" and the Proto-Germanic word "*langgaz". It has Indo-European roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*dlonghos". Over time, the word "long" developed into "longest" through the addition of the suffix "-est", which is used to indicate the superlative degree in English, indicating the highest degree of length.
Idioms with the word LONGEST
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longest way round is the shortest way home
The idiom "longest way round is the shortest way home" means that sometimes taking a more complicated or indirect route can be more efficient or effective in achieving a goal or solving a problem. It suggests that investing more time or effort upfront can save time or lead to better outcomes in the long run.
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at the longest
The idiom "at the longest" typically means the maximum amount of time something is expected to take or last. It suggests the longest possible duration for a particular event or task.
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they that live longest see most
The idiom "they that live longest see most" means that people who live longer have more life experiences and therefore gain more knowledge and wisdom over time. It suggests that individuals who have lived for a considerable amount of time have a broader perspective and have witnessed a greater variety of events, allowing them to have a deeper understanding of life.
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he laughs longest who laughs last
The idiom "he laughs longest who laughs last" means that the person who has the final victory or success, even if it may initially seem like they have suffered setbacks or difficulties, will ultimately have the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment. It suggests that patience, resilience, and perseverance lead to ultimate triumph.
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a creaking door hangs longest
The idiom "a creaking door hangs longest" means that people who are persistent or have a resilient demeanor are more likely to endure and succeed in challenging situations. It suggests that one who perseveres and refuses to give up has a greater chance of achieving their goals or outlasting their competitors.
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He who laughs last, laughs longest
The idiom "He who laughs last, laughs longest" means that the person who has the final or ultimate triumph or victory will enjoy it the most, even if they had faced difficulties or setbacks along the way. It suggests that patience, perseverance, and resilience often lead to the greatest satisfaction and success in the end.
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he who laughs last, laughs longest/best
The idiom "he who laughs last, laughs longest/best" means that the person who has the final victory or success will derive the greatest satisfaction or enjoyment. It implies that those who initially mock or doubt someone's abilities or achievements will ultimately be proven wrong, and the person who endures and perseveres will have the last laugh.
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creaking door hangs longest
The idiom "creaking door hangs longest" means that someone who lasts the longest in a particular situation or keeps going despite difficulties and obstacles is often the one who is most persistent and resilient. It suggests that persistence and perseverance often lead to success or outlasting others.
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the longest pole knocks the persimmon
Similar spelling words for LONGEST
- longish,
- longacre,
- largest,
- Longed,
- longs,
- long whist,
- lunges,
- lankiest,
- youngest,
- longwise,
- lounges,
- longways.
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