ENGLISH
REFERENCE

nearest

adj. · prep.
US //ˈnɪɹəst// UK //nˈiəɹəst// near·est
  1. 1 closest in distance (adj.)
    A1 Beginner

    the one that is the shortest distance away.

    denoting the shortest physical distance from a specific location or person.

    Example

    Where is the nearest supermarket to this hotel?

    Example

    The hikers decided to head for the nearest shelter when they noticed the dark clouds gathering over the ridge.
  2. 2 closest in time (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the one that is coming soonest.

    referring to the point in time that is least distant from the present or a specified moment.

    Example

    The nearest available appointment is next Tuesday at ten.

    Example

    We must consider the nearest deadline before we begin planning the long-term phases of the project.
    • most distant
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 closest to a place (prep.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used to describe being at the shortest distance to something.

    functioning as a superlative preposition to indicate the minimum spatial gap between two entities.

    Example

    He sat in the chair nearest the door so he could leave quickly.

    Example

    The table nearest the window offers the best view of the garden, though it can be quite chilly in the winter months.
    • closest to
    • farthest from
Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference