peak
peak Lexical Profile
peak Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The pointed top or summit of a mountain, or a mountain with a sharply pointed top.
"Snow covered the jagged mountain peak throughout the entire year."
The point of highest activity, achievement, intensity, or value.
"The singer reached the peak of her international fame in the late nineties."
A projecting visor on the front of a cap or hat, or any stiff, pointed projection.
"She pulled the peak of her cap down to shield her eyes from the bright afternoon sun."
• adjective
Representing the highest, maximum, or most intense level of activity, demand, or achievement.
"Commuters are advised to avoid traveling during peak hours to reduce congestion on the trains."
(Informal) Quintessential, supreme, or representing the most extreme or ideal example of something.
"The director's latest film is considered peak cinema by critics and audiences alike."
• verb
To reach a highest point, value, or level of development or intensity.
"Seasonal flu cases typically peak in mid-February before gradually declining in the spring."
To dwindle, waste away, or become pale, sickly, and emaciated.
"Without proper sunlight and water, the young seedlings began to peak and wilt."
Word Nuance & Usage
Frequently confused with its homophones 'peek' (to take a quick, secretive look) and 'pique' (to stimulate interest or feel resentment; e.g., 'pique one's curiosity').
• Rhymes for peak
Word Origin & Etymology
Dating back to the early 16th century, 'peak' is a variant of Middle English 'pik' (pike), ultimately deriving from Old English 'pic' meaning a sharp point or pointed tool.