innermost

American  

[in-er-mohst, -muhst] / ˈɪn ərˌmoʊst, -məst /

adjective

1. farthest inward; inmost.

2. most intimate or secret.

   one's innermost beliefs.

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noun

1. the innermost part.

innermost British  

/ ˈɪnəˌməʊst /

adjective

1. being or located furthest within; central

2. intimate; private

   innermost beliefs

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Etymology

Origin of innermost

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425; see origin at inner, -most

Explanation

Innermost things are located as far as possible inside or closest to the middle. The innermost part of a jelly doughnut is the where you'll find the jelly. The innermost room at your school — or the room at the very center — might be the library, and an Alaskan's innermost layer of clothing in the winter is probably her long underwear. Another way to use innermost is to mean "most intimate or private," such as your innermost beliefs, thoughts, or dreams. In Middle English, there was also an innermore.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

innermost

Seeing the accumulation of other people’s innermost desires in the trees — and given that the wishes are uncovered — lends the work an openness and accessibility that can be therapeutic, Loyer said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 10, 2026

This effect is dramatic on Io, Jupiter's innermost large moon, where intense gravitational stretching drives constant volcanic eruptions.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 7, 2026

If you opt for private sessions, there’s a misconception that it will involve revealing your innermost secrets, perhaps while lying on a couch, as a therapist prods you to beat back your demons.

From MarketWatch ● Jan. 7, 2026

It generates a world and mission tailored to each player's innermost wants and needs.

From BBC ● Dec. 13, 2025

Some innermost trapdoor she must leap upon immediately and lean against with all her weight and padlock shut.

From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr