DictionaryAI

best

BEST/ˈbɛst/

Noun pluralbests

9 meanings of best

Practice

  1. 1
    finestadjective
    Better than all the others, or the most suitable.

    This is the best way to get to school on time.

    Sunday morning is the best time to visit the park.

    UsageSay the best or my best: my best friend.

    Similarfinest, top, optimal, ideal, greatest

    Oppositeworst

  2. 2
    most fullyadverb
    In the most skillful or suitable way, or more than any other, as in 'she knows him best.' Superlative of well.

    She sings best when no one is watching her.

    Which of these colors do you like best?

    UsageIt often comes after the verb and its object: I like this one best. Also: best known.

    Note
  3. 3
    the finestnouncountable
    The person or thing that is better than all the others.

    Like the gold medal winner who finishes ahead of everyone else.

    She is the best on the swimming team.

    Only the best make it through to the finals.

    UsageSay the best of friends, or it's the best!

    Similarfinest

    Oppositeworst

  4. 4
    top effortnoununcountable
    The most effort someone can give to a task.

    Like running as fast as your legs can possibly carry you.

    She did her best to finish the project on time.

    Just give it your best and don't worry about the score.

    UsageSay do your best. At your best means in top form.

    Similarutmost

best is a form of well

well, adverb: In a good or successful way, or the way you hoped. Full entry

Forms
wellbetter comparativebest superlative
Spelling
well → best: irregular

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of best apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origins

Meanings 1–5, 7–9

From Old English betst, from an older Germanic word for "best."

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 3 facts

Meaning 6

A short form of "had best."

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 1 fact