absolute

UK: ˈæbsəluːt | US: ˈæbsəˌlut

Definition

  1. adj. complete; total (e.g., absolute power)

  2. adj. not limited by restrictions (e.g., absolute freedom)

  3. adj. unquestionable (e.g., absolute truth)

Structure
ab <away from>solut <loosen>e <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin absolutus (past participle of absolvere, meaning "to set free or complete"), combining ab- ("away from") and solvere ("to loosen"). The original sense of "free from limitation" evolved into modern meanings of totality or certainty, reflecting the idea of being "unbound" by conditions.

Examples

  1. The king ruled with absolute authority.

  2. She has absolute confidence in her team.

  3. The scientist sought absolute proof for the theory.

  4. In mathematics, zero is the absolute minimum.

  5. His loyalty to the cause was absolute.