nadir
noun
The lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organization; the point of greatest adversity. In astronomy, the point directly beneath the observer.
Etymology
From Arabic "nadir" (opposite to), short for "nazir as-samt" (opposite the zenith). The astronomical meaning came first, then the metaphorical.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The company reached its nadir during the recession before recovering."
- 2.
"That moment of despair represented the nadir of her career."
- 3.
"The sun at nadir would be directly beneath your feet."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Unlike its opposite "zenith" (from Arabic for "direction over the head"), "nadir" points straight through the Earth. You can only see the nadir by looking at the center of your own shadow.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 5 letters (N, A, D, I, R)
Scrabble Value: 6 points
Tip: Words ending in "IR" are often good scoring opportunities.
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