Best (b&ebreve_;st), a.; superl. of Good. [AS. besta, best, contr. from betest, betst, betsta; akin to Goth. batists, OHG. pezzisto, G. best, beste, D. best, Icel. beztr, Dan. best, Sw. bäst. This word has no connection in origin with good. See Better.] 1. Having good qualities in the highest degree; most good, kind, desirable, suitable, etc.; most excellent; as, the best man; the best road; the best cloth; the best abilities.
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When he is best, he is a little worse than a man. Shak.
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Heaven's last, best gift, my ever new delight. Milton.
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2. Most advanced; most correct or complete; as, the best scholar; the best view of a subject.
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3. Most; largest; as, the best part of a week.
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Best man, the only or principal groomsman at a wedding ceremony.
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Best, adv.; superl. of Well. 1. In the highest degree; beyond all others. “Thou serpent! That name best befits thee.” Milton.
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He prayeth best, who loveth best
All things both great and small. Coleridge.
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2. To the most advantage; with the most success, case, profit, benefit, or propriety.
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Had we best retire? I see a storm. Milton.
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Had I not best go to her? Thackeray.
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3. Most intimately; most thoroughly or correctly; as, what is expedient is best known to himself.
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