earliest

ear-li-est · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Superlative form of early; happening or existing before all others in time.

  2. 2.

    At the soonest possible time; before any other time.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    At the earliest — Used to indicate the soonest possible time.
  • •
    At your earliest convenience — As soon as it is convenient for you.

Related words

Antonyms: last, latest
See also: earlier, early, first, soonest
Synonyms: first, initial, original, primary

Etymology

From Old English ǣrlīc meaning "early," with the superlative suffix -est. Related to Old English ǣr meaning "before, ere."