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Word of the Day Friday, September 4, 2026

nadir

/ˈneɪdɪr/ noun · British & US
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What does nadir mean?

The word 'nadir' refers to the lowest or most unfavorable point of something, such as a person's fortunes or a situation's prospects. It is often used to describe a situation or a person's circumstances that have reached their lowest point. The word can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and it is often used to convey a sense of extreme adversity or hardship. In some cases, it may be used to describe a minimum or a low point, but it is often used to emphasize the severity of a situation. The word 'nadir' has its roots in Arabic and Latin, and it has been used in English since the 17th century. It is a useful word for describing extreme situations or circumstances, and it can be used in a variety of contexts, from business to personal relationships.

noun

The lowest or most unfavorable point of something, such as a person's fortunes or a situation's prospects.

Senses
  1. The lowest or most unfavorable point of something.
Example

"The company's stock price hit a nadir after the financial scandal broke."

More examples

"The company's stock price hit a nadir after the financial scandal broke."

"Her mental health reached a nadir during her divorce."

Plural nadirs

The plural form 'nadirs' is used to describe multiple low points or unfavorable situations.

Example

"The company's stock price hit a nadir after the financial scandal broke, and it continued to decline in the following months."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of nadir

The word 'nadir' originated from the Arabic word 'nazir', which means 'opposite' or 'contrary'. The word was later adopted into Latin as 'nadir', and it was used to describe the lowest point of something. The word was introduced into English in the 17th century, and it has been used to describe a situation or a person's fortunes that have reached their lowest point.

How nadir is actually used

The word 'nadir' is often used to describe a situation or a person's fortunes that have reached their lowest point. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In some cases, it may be used to describe a minimum or a low point, but it is often used to convey a sense of extreme adversity or hardship.

What's another word for nadir?

What's the opposite of nadir?

Rhymes with nadir