First Known Use: 14th century
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zenith
noun ze·nith \ˈzē-nəth, Canada also & British usually ˈze-nəth, -nith\
: the strongest or most successful period of time
: the highest point reached in the sky by the sun, moon, etc.
Full Definition of ZENITH
1
: the point of the celestial sphere that is directly opposite the nadir and vertically above the observer — see azimuth illustration
2
: the highest point reached in the heavens by a celestial body
3
: culminating point : acme <at the zenith of his powers — John Buchan>
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Origin of ZENITH
Middle English cenyth, senyth, from Middle French cenit, from Medieval Latin, from Old Spanish zenit, modification of Arabic samt (al-ra's) way (over one's head)
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ZENITH Defined for Kids
zenith
noun ze·nith \ˈzē-nəth\
Definition of ZENITH for Kids
1
: the point in the sky directly overhead
2
: the highest point or stage <She was at the zenith of her career.>
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