English Reference
adjective

closest

adj.
US /ˈkɫoʊsəst/ UK /klˈəʊsəst/ clos·est

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    the person or thing that is the shortest distance away.

    denoting the object or location at the minimum physical distance from a reference point.

    Simple

    The closest supermarket is just a five-minute walk from here.

    In context

    The survey team identified the closest water source to the campsite to ensure the expedition had a reliable supply throughout the week.

    nearestnext door
  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    the people you love or know the best, like family or best friends.

    denoting the highest degree of emotional intimacy or familial connection.

    Simple

    She only invited her closest friends and family to the small wedding.

    In context

    Even his closest advisors were kept in the dark about the CEO's sudden decision to resign before the merger was finalised.

    dearestmost intimate
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    the thing that is almost exactly like something else.

    representing the highest degree of similarity or correspondence to a target or original.

    Simple

    This paint is the closest match we can find to the original colour.

    In context

    The linguist argued that this particular dialect represents the closest living relative to the extinct language of the region.

    nearestmost like
    most different

Usage closest living

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated