Definition

The most usual or frequently occurring; something that is found or seen often.

Example

The commonest type of bird in this area is the sparrow.

Conversation

What do you think is the commonest mistake people make when learning a new language?

I think it's probably not practicing enough in real conversations.

Yeah, that's true! I guess consistency is the commonest key to improvement.

Exactly! The more you use it, the better you get.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Commonest → It is formed from "common" (from Old French *comun*, meaning shared by all) and "-est" (a superlative suffix indicating the highest degree). The word "commonest" means the most shared or the most frequent among a group.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'shared by all' ('common') and remember that 'commonest' refers to the most frequently shared or occurring.

Visually Confused Words