—adj.
1 of the highest quality or degree (superlative wisdom).
2 Gram. (of an adjective or adverb) expressing the highest or a very high degree of a quality (e.g. bravest, most fiercely) (cf. POSITIVE, COMPARATIVE).
—n.
1 Gram. a the superlative expression or form of an adjective or adverb. b a word in the superlative.
2 something embodying excellence; the highest form of a thing.
Derivatives:
superlatively adv. superlativeness n.
Etymology: ME f. OF superlatif -ive f. LL superlativus f. L superlatus (as SUPER-, latus past part. of ferre take)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.