What does summit mean?
A summit is the highest point of a mountain or another elevated place. The word is also used figuratively for the peak of a career, a process, or an achievement. In international relations, a summit is a meeting attended by senior political leaders, often focused on a major international issue. For example, leaders may meet at a peace summit to discuss conflict, security, or economic cooperation. As a verb, “to summit” means to reach the highest point, either literally, as when climbers summit a mountain, or figuratively, as when a project reaches its most successful stage. The word is used in both British and American English and has a broadly neutral, formal tone in political contexts.
The highest point of a mountain, hill, or other elevated place; figuratively, the highest level of achievement or influence.
"The climbers finally reached the summit just before sunset."
A meeting or gathering of senior political leaders, especially one addressing an international issue.
"The two governments agreed to meet again at the next summit."
To reach the highest point of a mountain or other elevated place; figuratively, to attain the highest level of achievement or success.
"After months of difficult training, she summited the peak."
The plural is used for individual mountain peaks and for political meetings or gatherings.
"The expedition reached two summits during the week."
The word comes from Latin summa, meaning “highest point,” so a summit is literally a “sum”—and the highest one at that.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does summit come from?
The noun entered English in the late 16th century from French sommet, which developed from Medieval Latin summita and Latin summa, meaning “highest point” or “sum.” The Latin source is related to summus, meaning “highest,” and is also the origin of words such as summary and summarize. In English, the word’s political sense developed later by analogy with meetings held at a mountain’s summit.
How summit is actually used
In its political sense, “summit” usually suggests a formal meeting of leaders or officials and may carry the implication of high-level decision-making. The geographical sense is also used figuratively for the highest point of a career, achievement, or process.