1
as in attire
dressy clothing
the family wore their best to the wedding
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in elite
individuals carefully selected as being the best of a class
only the best will go on to the finals
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in to worst
to achieve a victory over
at last she's bested her card-playing mother at the game of hearts
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of best
Radhika Seth, Vogue, 8 Feb. 2025
Conclave and Wicked went into the ceremony leading this year’s film nominees with 11 nods each, including for the top prize of best picture.
—Hilary Lewis, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Feb. 2025
Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 7 Mar. 2025
Two seasons that would surpass the career bests for Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg.
—Corey Masisak, The Denver Post, 22 Feb. 2025
Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025
Companies exist to best their peers, to make the risk of running complex organizations worthwhile, and this in turn creates all the jobs that build humans’ standards of living.
—Ben Kunz, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for best
Adjective
In the end, Gangs of New York went home empty-handed despite its 10 nods, and Rob Marshall’s Chicago won best picture.
—Radhika Seth, Vogue, 8 Feb. 2025
Conclave and Wicked went into the ceremony leading this year’s film nominees with 11 nods each, including for the top prize of best picture.
—Hilary Lewis, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Feb. 2025
Noun
The total for 2024 bests the previous high of $397 million reached in 2009, which was the first season in the new Yankee Stadium and is the last time the Bronx Bombers won the World Series.
—Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 7 Mar. 2025
Two seasons that would surpass the career bests for Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg.
—Corey Masisak, The Denver Post, 22 Feb. 2025
Verb
The ergonomic properties of black zirconium oxide ceramic, which is light and comfortable to wear, are bested only by its stealthy appearance, sleek by definition.
—Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025
Companies exist to best their peers, to make the risk of running complex organizations worthwhile, and this in turn creates all the jobs that build humans’ standards of living.
—Ben Kunz, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for best
Recent Examples of Synonyms for best
Noun
-
In fact, presidential paintings, from Washington to Obama, displayed in the White House, traditionally portray their subjects in business attire and formal poses.—
Barbara A. Perry,
MSNBC Newsweek,
18 Apr. 2025
-
From onstage wardrobes to around-the-grounds party attire and more, this year’s Coachella brought drama, theatricality, sheer looks and more.—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
17 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Explore Jessie Jo Dillon Zach Top See latest videos, charts and news Hosted by media personality Storme Warren, the event saw many of Nashville’s songwriting and publishing elites gather to fete top songs, songwriters, artists and publishers.—
Jessica Nicholson,
Billboard,
9 Apr. 2025
-
And then there's the Ratliff family, a clan of Southern elites with dark secrets galore portrayed by Jason Isaacs, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Cook, and Sam Nivola.—
Randall Colburn,
EW.com,
8 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
This hat offers a throwback ‘90s look while keeping you stylish and protected.—
Alesandra Dubin,
Travel + Leisure,
12 Apr. 2025
-
While the material alone could have been basic, what Landon makes of it with such stylish and emotional execution is anything but.—
Katie Walsh,
Twin Cities,
11 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Hire a really good costume designer and a really good art department.—
H. Alan Scott,
MSNBC Newsweek,
9 Apr. 2025
-
Since arriving on Savile Row, the sons have worked with several high-profile costume designers on pieces for forthcoming productions.—
Lee Sharrock,
Forbes.com,
9 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
An extensive park with pools makes this an excellent choice for families, and private tours of the Borromeo Islands depart from the hotel’s boat dock.—
Elizabeth Heath,
Travel + Leisure,
16 Mar. 2025
-
Maintaining oral health is not a choice, but a necessity for our overall well-being.—
Khloe Quill,
Fox News,
16 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
The Kings defeated the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the play-in tournament before losing to the New Orleans Pelicans in a game that would have sent them to the playoffs as the No.—
Jason Anderson,
Sacbee.com,
10 Apr. 2025
-
In his first defense of the IBF crown, Ennis defeated David Avanesyan when the fight was halted before the start of the sixth round.—
Trent Reinsmith,
Forbes.com,
10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
Hot Potato Salad Recipe: Shaved Vegetable Salad Recipe: Easy Bunny Cake This easy and elegant menu keeps things classic, but with an extra helping of flavor and color.—
Alana Al-Hatlani,
Southern Living,
19 Apr. 2025
-
Puff sleeves are always elegant, helping to dress up any outfit no matter what it’s paired with.—
Nicol Natale,
People.com,
18 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Ancient Rome is cool because of gladiators, Julius Caesar — and yes, the underlying lore of strength, bravery and epic feats of masculinity.—
Donie O'Sullivan,
CNN Money,
13 Apr. 2025
-
In many of Kim Won Suk’s dramas, there’s an inspiring character—one whose acts of kindness, compassion, bravery and loyalty motivates viewers to do the right thing in their own lives.—
Joan MacDonald,
Forbes.com,
11 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Best.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/best. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share