Definition of supreme

The word "supreme" originated from the Latin word "supremus," meaning "highest in rank or authority." During the medieval period in Europe, it was utilized to describe the highest-ranking ecclesiastical officials, as they were considered to have authority over lesser officials in the church hierarchy. However, as the meaning of the word evolved, it came to signify something that is outstanding, extraordinary, or of the highest degree in any category or quality. This meaning can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was employed by English authors to describe exceptional people or exceptional occasions. Over time, "supreme" came to be utilized in various contexts, from describing a political leader's authority ("supreme leader") to referring to supreme courts of law ("supreme court"). In a nutshell, the word "supreme" derives from the Latin "supremus" and has evolved to imply anything that is superior, outstanding, or having the highest level of authority or quality.