sublime
UK: /səˈblaɪm/ | US: /səˈblaɪm/
adj. of such excellence or beauty as to inspire great admiration or awe
vt. to elevate or refine to a high degree of purity or perfection
sublime = sub<under, up to> + lime<threshold, limit>
- sub (Latin: "under, up to") implies upward movement or transcendence.
- lime (Latin: "limen," meaning "threshold" or "limit") refers to a boundary or point of transition.
Etymology Origin:
The word "sublime" originates from the Latin sublimis, combining sub ("up to") and limen ("threshold"). It originally described something lifted to a higher state, surpassing ordinary limits. Over time, it evolved to denote awe-inspiring grandeur or spiritual elevation, reflecting the idea of transcending earthly boundaries.
The view from the mountain peak was truly sublime.
Her poetry captures the sublime beauty of nature.
The composer’s music achieves a sublime harmony.
He sought to sublime his emotions into art.
The sunset painted the sky in sublime colors.