Definition of inferior

The word "inferior" can be traced back to the Latin language, where it originated as "inferius" meaning "below" or "coming after." The prefix "in-" in this case, has the meaning of "not" or "un-," implying a lack or opposite. The word was adopted by Old French around the 13th century, where it took the form "infirus" and subsequently, in the Middle English period, it evolved into "inferiour." The original meaning of the word, in Latin as well as in its adopted forms, pertained to spatial or temporal relationships, such as being situated below or coming after other things. It was not used as a value judgement or to denote quality or worth until later in its usage history. In Classical Latin, "inferior" was specifically used to describe the subterranean regions and celestial bodies that appeared to be below or after other objects, such as the moon and the planets. In Early Modern English, the word started to take on more negative connotations, with "inferior" being applied to objects or individuals deemed less valuable, worthy, or capable than others. Today, the word "inferior" continues to be primarily used as a relative term to describe something with a lower worth, quality, or position compared to other things. While still carrying some stigma, its meaning has become more clear and straightforward than in its earlier forms, as its usage has become more standardized in English.