Word
peaked
/ˈpikt/
Definitions
01having a pointed top
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. having a pointed top or a sharp shape like a mountain.
adj. characterised by a peak or peaks; having a pointed or crested shape.
“The house had a high peaked roof that helped the snow slide off.”
“The mountain range presented a series of jagged, peaked summits that challenged even the most experienced climbers in the expedition.”
02looking pale or ill
C1 · Advanced British English
adj. looking pale, thin, or tired, usually because you are sick.
adj. appearing pale, sickly, or emaciated, often as a result of illness or exhaustion.
“You look a bit peaked today; are you feeling alright?”
“After a week of battling the flu, he looked remarkably peaked and had lost a noticeable amount of weight.”
Usage
Usually used after a linking verb like 'look' or 'feel'.
Teaching tip
This sense is more common in British English; American speakers might prefer 'peaky' or simply 'pale'.
03reached a highest point
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. reached the highest level, price, or stage of something.
v. the past tense of 'peak', referring to reaching a maximum value, intensity, or point of development.
“The athlete peaked at the right time and won the gold medal.”
“Traffic congestion peaked during the early evening hours, causing significant delays across the metropolitan transport network.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Flu cases increased in November and quickly peaked in December .” “On Saturday the temperature peaked at 30.6C in southern England.” “Upon its release, “Intro” peaked at number 35 on the UK Official Singles Chart and remained in the UK Dance Singles Chart for 10 weeks.” “Google searches of the term peaked in 2019.” Etymology
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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