best

I. adjective, superlative of good Etymology: Middle English, from Old English betst; akin to Old English bōt remedy — more at better Date: before 12th century 1. excelling all others <

the best student

> 2. most productive of good ; offering or producing the greatest advantage, utility, or satisfaction <

what is the best thing to do

> 3. most, largest <

it rained for the best part of their vacation

> II. adverb, superlative of well Date: before 12th century 1. in the best way ; to greatest advantage <

some things are best left unsaid

> 2. most <

those best able will provide needed support

> III. noun (plural best) Date: before 12th century 1. the best state or part 2. one that is best <

the best falls short

> 3. the greatest degree of good or excellence 4. a. one's maximum effort <

do your best

> b. a best performance or achievement <

ran a new personal best

> 5. best clothes <

Sunday best

> IV. transitive verb Date: 1863 to get the better of ; outdo V. verbal auxiliary Date: 1914 had best <

you best listen

>