absolute

[[t]æ̱bsəluːt[/t]]

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absolutes

1) ADJ: usu ADJ n Absolute means total and complete.

It's not really suited to absolute beginners...

A sick person needs absolute confidence and trust in a doctor.

Syn:

complete

2) ADJ: ADJ n (emphasis) You use absolute to emphasize something that you are saying.

About 12 inches wide is the absolute minimum you should consider...

I think it's absolute nonsense.

Syn:

complete

3) ADJ: ADJ n An absolute ruler has complete power and authority over his or her country.

He ruled with absolute power.

...the doctrine of absolute monarchy based upon divine right.

4) ADJ: usu ADJ n Absolute is used to say that something is definite and will not change even if circumstances change.

John brought the absolute proof that we needed...

They had given an absolute assurance that it would be kept secret.

5) ADJ: ADJ n An amount that is expressed in absolute terms is expressed as a fixed amount rather than referring to variable factors such as what you earn or the effects of inflation.

In absolute terms British wages remain low by European standards.

Ant:

real

6) ADJ: usu ADJ n Absolute rules and principles are believed to be true, right, or relevant in all situations.

There are no absolute rules.

...certain assumptions which are accepted without question as absolute truths.

7) N-COUNT An absolute is a rule or principle that is believed to be true, right, or relevant in all situations.

We tend to think in absolutes.

8) → See also decree absolute