almost
UK: ˈɔːlməʊst | US: ˈɔːlmoʊst
adv. nearly but not completely; very close to
adv. virtually; for all practical purposes
almost = al<all> + most<greatest>
- al (from Old English eall, meaning "all")
- most (from Old English mǣst, meaning "greatest" or "utmost")
Etymology Origin:
The word "almost" originated in Old English as eallmǣst, combining eall ("all") and mǣst ("most"). It originally conveyed the idea of "mostly all" or "very nearly all," eventually evolving into its modern sense of "very close to but not quite." The logical progression reflects a gradual narrowing from "all" to "nearly all," emphasizing proximity without full attainment.
She almost missed the train this morning.
The project is almost finished, just needing a few final touches.
He almost never eats sweets, preferring savory snacks.
The temperature is almost freezing tonight.
I almost forgot to call my mother on her birthday.