adj. & n.
--adj.
1. last, final.
2 beyond which no other exists or is possible (the ultimate analysis).
3 fundamental, primary, unanalysable (ultimate truths).
4 maximum (ultimate tensile strength).
--n.
1. (prec. by the) the best achievable or imaginable.
2 a final or fundamental fact or principle.
Derivatives:
ultimately adj. ultimateness n.
Etymology: LL ultimatus past part. of ultimare come to an end