utmost

[uht-mohst, -muhst]

adjective

1. of the greatest or highest degree, quantity, or the like; greatest.

   of the utmost importance.

   Synonyms: major, chief, foremost, maximum

2. being at the farthest point or extremity; farthest.

   the utmost reef of the island.

noun

1. Also the greatest degree or amount.

   the utmost that can be said;

   The hotel provides the utmost in comfort.

2. the most or best of one's abilities, powers, etc..

   He did his utmost to finish on time.

3. the extreme limit or extent.

   His patience was taxed to the utmost.

utmost

/ ˈʌtˌməʊst /

adjective

1. of the greatest possible degree or amount

   the utmost degree

2. at the furthest limit

   the utmost town on the peninsula

noun

1. the greatest possible degree, extent, or amount

   he tried his utmost

Word History and Origins

Origin of utmost¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English utmest, Old English ūtemest; equivalent to out + -most

Word History and Origins

Origin of utmost¹

Old English ūtemest, from ūte out + -mest _most

Example Sentences

A council spokesperson said: "We take the protection of personal data extremely seriously and remain committed to handling residents' information with the utmost care and confidence."

From BBC

From the moment he took the stage to when he left, Kimmel expressed his ideas with the utmost clarity and intention.

From Salon

“It’s of utmost importance to us to not let another rural hospital close,” said Austin Gilbert, a spokesperson for Tangipa’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

"We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern."

From BBC

"At a time when we are doing our utmost to protect legitimate access for Newcastle United fans, we want to be fully transparent and apologise for this oversight," the club said.

From BBC

Related Words

• absolute 
• all-out 
• sheer 
• ultimate 
• unconditional