nearest
UK: ˈnɪərɪst | US: ˈnɪrɪst
adj. superlative form of "near," meaning closest in distance, time, or relationship
The word "near" originates from Old English nēar, the comparative form of nēah (close), derived from Proto-Germanic nēhwiz. The suffix "-est" is a superlative marker in English, inherited from Old English -est, -ost, used to form the highest degree of comparison. Over time, "nearest" evolved as the standard superlative of "near," consistently used to denote the utmost proximity in physical or abstract contexts.
The nearest hospital is just two blocks away.
She chose the seat nearest to the window.
This is the nearest I’ve ever come to winning a prize.
The nearest available date for the meeting is next Monday.
He lives in the house nearest to the train station.