nethermost

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

From Middle English neþermeste; equivalent to nether +‎ -most.

Adjective[edit]

nethermost (not comparable)

  1. (chiefly literary, archaic) Farthest down; lowest.
    • [1629], Iohn Gaule [i.e., John Gaule], Practique Theories: Or, Votiue Speculations, vpon Iesus Christs Prediction. Incarnation. Passion. Resurrection. [], London: [] [Thomas Cotes] for Iames Bowler, →OCLC, page 141:
      He merited not the Abaſement; vve vvere vvorthy the Damnation. Ah, ah my good Sauiour! A Nethermoſt depth cannot ſincke me lovv enough, ſince thou ſtoop'ſt to a Footſtoole. Thou likenedſt thee to me, I vvill compare me to Nothing: []

Usage notes[edit]

  • Not a true superlative in its formation.
  • Used in the Cumbrian topographical name Nethermost Cove.

Related terms[edit]

Anagrams[edit]