Langimage
English

extreme

|ex/treme|

B2

/ɪkˈstriːm/

to a great degree

Etymology
Etymology Information

'extreme' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'extremus,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' and 'ter-' meant 'earth.'

Historical Evolution

'extremus' transformed into the Old French word 'extreme,' and eventually became the modern English word 'extreme' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'outermost' or 'farthest,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'very great or severe.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the furthest or highest degree of something.

He was pushed to the extreme of his patience.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

reaching a high or the highest degree; very great.

The weather was extreme, with temperatures reaching over 40°C.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35