ultimates
/ˈʌltɪməts/
NOUN
1. The most basic or fundamental elements
The most essential, basic, or irreducible elements of a set of things, principles, or concepts.
1.1. Essential nature or fundamental principles
The core qualities, essential elements, or underlying principles that represent the most basic nature of something.
Synonyms
- quintessences
- essences
- fundamentals
- cores
- essentials
- basics
Examples
- The philosophers debated the ultimates of human existence and the nature of reality.
- Understanding the ultimates of the theory requires examining its fundamental principles.
Related Words
- ideals
- principles
- foundations
- kernels
- substances
- fundamentals
1.2. The finest or most perfect examples
People or things regarded as the most complete, representative, or outstanding examples of a particular quality or category.
Synonyms
- epitomes
- paragons
- ideals
- exemplars
- models
- nonpareils
Examples
- The designers presented their creations as the ultimates in contemporary fashion.
- The collection showcased what the critics considered the ultimates of modern craftsmanship.
Related Words
- archetypes
- prototypes
- standards
- benchmarks
- personifications
NOUN
2. Final or most distant points
The concluding points, furthest limits, or ultimate ends of a process, sequence, or progression.
2.1. Final stages or conclusions
The final points or completed stages reached after a process, development, or sequence of events.
Synonyms
- consummations
- endings
- conclusions
- culminations
- termini
- terminuses
Examples
- The discussions focused on the ultimates of the negotiation process.
- The report examined the ultimates of several long-term economic developments.
Related Words
- ends
- destinations
- outcomes
- finales
- terminations
2.2. Furthest limits or extremities
The greatest boundaries, outermost points, or furthest extents that something can reach or attain.
Synonyms
- extremes
- extremities
- limits
- depths
- heights
- utmosts
Antonyms
- leasts
- minima
- minimums
Examples
- The expedition explored the ultimates of human endurance in extreme conditions.
- The study investigated the ultimates of temperature that the material could withstand.
Related Words
NOUN
3. The greatest possible amounts or degrees
The maximum quantities, highest levels, or greatest possible degrees of something.
3.1. Maximum quantities or values
The highest possible amounts, numerical values, or measurable levels within a particular range or system.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- minima
- minimums
- leasts
Examples
- The engineers calculated the ultimates and minima for the system's operating parameters.
Related Words
- extremes
- limits
- ceilings
- thresholds
NOUN
4. A competitive flying-disc sport
A non-contact team sport played with a flying disc, in which players score by completing passes to teammates in the opposing team's end zone.
4.1. Games of ultimate frisbee
Competitive matches or forms of the team sport ultimate frisbee, where players pass a flying disc to advance toward the opponent's scoring zone.
Synonyms
- ultimate frisbee
Examples
- The tournament featured several exciting ultimates played by experienced flying-disc teams.
Related Words
- flying disc
- disc sports
- team sports
- frisbee
- end zone