Definition

This word describes someone who is very fat or overweight, often in a way that suggests they are dignified or important.

Example

The portliest man in the room was the mayor, who commanded attention with his presence.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen the new guy at work?

Yeah, I think he's the portliest person I've ever met.

Right? I didn't expect him to be that big.

Same here! But he's really friendly, which makes up for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Portliest → It is formed from "portly" (from Middle English *portly*, meaning stout or corpulent) and the suffix "-est" (meaning the most). The word "portliest" means the most stout or corpulent among a group.

Memory Tip

Think of 'portly' which describes someone stout, and remember that 'portliest' means the most stout.

Visually Confused Words