acme

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/ˈækmi/
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The highest stage something reaches, and by extension the fullest example of excellence or perfection.
Practice using acme in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • That album came at the acme of the singer-songwriter era.
  • The scene was once praised as the acme of comic timing.
  • The machine was marketed as the acme of efficiency.
  • The chair is often treated as the acme of mid-century design.
  • Her restraint under pressure seemed the acme of professionalism.

Similar words

zenith
paragon
ideal
culmination
epitome
peak
perfection
pinnacle
model
height

Meanings

Highest stage or peak

noun
achievement
formal
The highest point or stage reached by something, usually a peak of success, power, development, or intensity.

Examples

  • The empire was at the acme of its power.
  • That album came at the acme of the singer-songwriter era.
  • The fever reached its acme just before dawn.
  • For many critics, the concerto marks the acme of his early style.
  • The climactic battle arrives at the acme of the story.

Similar words

peak
height
zenith
pinnacle
summit
culmination

Perfect example of a quality

noun
quality
formal
A person or thing regarded as the fullest or most perfect example of a quality, skill, or design.

Examples

  • The machine was marketed as the acme of efficiency.
  • Her restraint under pressure seemed the acme of professionalism.
  • The chair is often treated as the acme of mid-century design.
  • To its fans, the restaurant is the acme of quiet luxury.
  • The scene was once praised as the acme of comic timing.

Similar words

paragon
epitome
ideal
pinnacle
model
perfection

Etymology

Borrowed in the 1560s from Greek akmē, meaning point, highest point, edge, or peak, from a root associated with sharp or pointed things.

FAQ

What does acme mean?

Acme means the highest point or stage something reaches, or the most perfect example of a quality.

Is acme a noun?

Yes. Acme is a noun, as in the acme of her career or the acme of efficiency.

Is acme still used literally for a mountain peak?

The literal peak sense is historical and possible, but modern English usually uses acme for figurative peaks of power, growth, excellence, or perfection.

What is the difference between acme and apex?

Apex often points to the top or tip of a shape, while acme more often suggests the highest stage or finest example.

What is the difference between acme and acne?

Acme means a peak or perfect example. Acne is a skin condition.

Is ACME the same as acme?

No. Lowercase acme is the common noun. Uppercase ACME is usually a name, fictional brand, or abbreviation.

Where does acme come from?

Acme comes from Greek akmē, a word for a point, edge, highest point, or peak.

What are synonyms of acme?

Common synonyms include peak, height, zenith, pinnacle, summit, culmination, paragon, and epitome.

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