nadir

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an extreme state of adversity; the lowest point of anything
  2. noun the point below the observer that is directly opposite the zenith on the imaginary sphere against which celestial bodies appear to be projected

Etymology

From Medieval Latin nadir, from Arabic نَظِير السَّمْت (naẓīr as-samt), composed of نَظِير (naẓīr, “counterpart, corresponding to”) and السَّمْت (as-samt, “the zenith”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

low-water mark

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