I. ˈbest 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
•
- as best
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
•
- at best
IV. transitive verb
Date: 1863
: to get the better of : outdo
V. verbal auxiliary
Date: 1914
: had best
you best listen