Superlative of Adjectives

The comparative is based on the third declension. Distinctions arise that affect the consonance of the end of adjectives.

Most adjectives from first or second declension:

    uast-issimus, f. uastissima (most vast, widest)

Many adjectives from second declension whose stem ends in a liquid:

    pulcher-rissima, m. pulcherrimus (most beautiful, most handsome)

Few irregular adjectives having an ancient form:

    max-imus, < *mag-simus (greatest)

Notes on the Superlative

1. The superlative’s complement is expressed in Latin either using the genitive:

    Romanorum prudentissimus (the most careful of Romans)

2. ...or the ablative:

    e Romanis prudentissimus (of [all] Romans, the most careful)

    and similarly, ...

    altissima arborum or altissima ex arboribus (the tallest of trees)