inferior

UK: ɪnˈfɪəriə | US: ɪnˈfɪriər

Definition

  1. adj. lower in rank, status, or quality

  2. adj. situated below or directed downward

  3. n. a person of lower rank or ability

Structure
infer <below>ior <comparative suffix>infer <below>ior <comparative suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin inferior (lower in position or quality), the word combines inferus (beneath) with the comparative suffix -ior. It originally described physical position (e.g., lower ground) and later extended metaphorically to rank or quality. The suffix -ior is key to forming Latin comparatives, contrasting with -superior (higher).

Examples

  1. The quality of the product was inferior to its competitors.

  2. She refused to accept an inferior position in the company.

  3. The inferior petals of the flower were less vibrant.

  4. He felt inferior to his more accomplished peers.

  5. The army’s inferior equipment led to their defeat.