Meaning & Definition of word "Nadir"

Nadir

/ˈneɪ.dɪr/

noun:

  • 1. the lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organization.
    • Example: The company reached its nadir during the economic crisis, struggling to stay afloat.
  • 2. the point on the celestial sphere directly beneath a given observer, opposite the zenith.
    • Example: In astronomy, the nadir represents the lowest point in the sky directly below a location.
  • 3. a low or negative point in a situation or a condition.
    • Example: His career hit a nadir when he lost his job and faced several personal challenges.

Etymology

From Arabic 'naẓīr' meaning 'opposite'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

nadir of one's career:

The lowest point in someone's professional life.

reach the nadir:

To arrive at the lowest point in a situation.

nadir of despair:

The lowest point of feeling hopeless.

Related Words

zenith:

The highest point reached by a celestial object.

low:

Being in a state of reduced quality or less than desirable level.

Slang Meanings of nadir

Meaning: A situation that is at its worst.

Example Sentence: After losing his job, he felt like he had hit his nadir.

Meaning: The lowest score or performance in a competition.

Example Sentence: That game was his nadir; he couldn't hit a shot.