n.
Function: adjective
Inflected Form: sub · lim · er ; -est
Etymology: Latin sublimis, literally, high, elevated
Date: circa 1567
1 a : lofty, grand, or exalted in thought, expression, or manner b : of outstanding spiritual, intellectual, or moral worth c : tending to inspire awe usually because of elevated quality (as of beauty, nobility, or grandeur) or transcendent excellence
2 a archaic : high in place b obsolete : lofty of mien : HAUGHTY c capitalized : SUPREME ― used in a style of address d : COMPLETE , UTTER < sublime ignorance>
synonyms see SPLENDID
– sub · lime · ly adverb
– sub · lime · ness noun