world record Meaning

World Record

Definition: A world record refers to the highest achievement or best performance in a particular category, often documented and recognized internationally by an authoritative organization. This term is commonly associated with feats in sports, science, or other competitive fields, where it serves as a benchmark of excellence.

Usage: The term is typically employed in contexts where individuals or teams have surpassed previous maximums in measurable activities, such as setting a new time in a running event or achieving the highest score in a video game. It signifies a standard that others may seek to challenge or surpass.

Example sentence: “She set a new world record in the 100-meter dash, surpassing the previous time by a full second.”

Etymology: The term “world record” combines “world” and “record.”

• “World” originates from the Old English weorold, derived from wer (man) and eld (age), essentially meaning “age of man.”
• “Record” comes from the Latin recordari, meaning “to remember or recall.” Over time, it evolved in Middle English through the Old French record, denoting a “measured account” or “documentation of an achievement.”

Pronunciation: /wɜrld ˈrɛkərd/ (American English) or /wɜːld ˈrɛkəd/ (British English)

Synonyms:

• Achievement
• Milestone
• Benchmark
• Best

Antonyms:

• Failure
• Loss
• Defeat
• Average

The phrase “world record” is often affiliated with official organizations, such as the Guinness World Records, that validate and catalog these achievements. It suggests not only personal excellence but often global recognition, making it a significant term in competitive contexts.

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