Briefest

/ˈbriːfəst/ adjective

Definition

The shortest in length, duration, or detail when comparing multiple things.

Etymology

From brief (Old French brevis, Latin brevis meaning 'short') + -est (superlative suffix). The superlative form indicates the maximum degree of brevity.

Kelly Says

English loves comparing length with 'brief, briefer, briefest,' but ironically the word itself comes from Latin where the same root appears in 'breviary'—a book of shortened prayers!

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