# thinnest

/ˈθɪnɪst/ (US) · /θˈɪnəst/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thinnest
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

having the smallest thickness or width when you compare three or more things.

For teachers: superlative of 'thin'; indicating the least thickness, width, or density among three or more compared items.

## Examples

- This is the thinnest blanket we own.
- The shop assistant shows me the thinnest laptop on the shelf because I travel a lot.
- Through the thinnest crack in the curtains, pale morning light reaches the wooden floor.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the thinner of the three books" but "the thinnest of the three books" — Use the superlative -est form when comparing three or more items, not the comparative -er form.

## Usage notes

- Superlative form of 'thin'; typically preceded by 'the' and used when comparing three or more items.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
