utmost

American  

[uht-mohst, -muhst] / ˈʌtˌmoʊst, -məst /

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.

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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 British  

/ ˈʌtˌməʊst /

adjective

1. of the greatest possible degree or amount

   the utmost degree

2. at the furthest limit

   the utmost town on the peninsula

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noun

1. the greatest possible degree, extent, or amount

   he tried his utmost

Etymology

Origin of utmost

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

Example Sentences

If you really value something, after all, you will do your utmost to preserve it.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

"We have the utmost respect for the Ukrainian people's immense efforts in defending themselves," the company said, adding: "Every single woman and man in Ukraine is making an immeasurable contribution."

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

So, any indication that it is being targeted is taken with the utmost seriousness by Israel.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“The stability of the region is of the utmost importance,” she told reporters at a press conference alongside Swiss President Guy Parmelin, as the two sides signed a package of economic agreements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

Ron was sitting up in bed, the hangings torn from one side, a look of utmost terror on his face.

From "Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban" by J.K. Rowling

Related Words

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