Absolute - Wikipedia-style Article

Absolute

Definition

Absolute is both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it means something that is complete, total, and unrestricted, often implying an extreme or definitive quality. As a noun, it refers to something that is not dependent on anything else and exists independently.

Parts of Speech

Adjective
Noun

Pronunciation

American English

Adjective and Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæbsəˌlut/
Respelling: AB-suh-loot

British English

Adjective and Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæbsəluːt/
Respelling: AB-suh-loot

Etymology

The word "absolute" originates from the Latin "absolutus," which means "completed" or "set free," derived from the verb "absolvere" meaning "to set free, to complete." This term entered English in the 14th century, carrying the sense of something that is entire or unrestricted.

Derivatives

Absolutely (adverb)
Absolution (noun)
Absolutism (noun)
Absolutist (noun)
Absoluteness (noun)

Synonyms

Complete
Definitive
Unconditional

Antonyms

Relative
Partial
Conditional

Usage

The term "absolute" is often used to describe something that is without limitation or qualification, such as in "absolute power" or "absolute truth." In philosophy, it can refer to a concept or reality that exists independently of other things.

Related Terms

Ultimate: The highest or final point in a progression or series.
Definitive: Conclusive or serving as the best example.
Independent: Free from external control or influence.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

Complete and total: Refers to something that is without restriction or qualification.
- Example: "The ruler held absolute power over the land."
Not relative or dependent: Describes something that exists independently of other factors.
- Example: "Some consider truth to be absolute rather than relative."

Noun

A concept or reality that exists independently: Refers to an idea or reality that is self-contained and unaffected by external influences.
- Example: "Philosophers often debate the existence of the absolute."