at worst

phrase

: under the worst circumstances

Examples of at worst in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That immediately signaled some future starting competition at best and a swing tackle option at worst. — Jon MacHota, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026 But there is a saying in the military that leadership sets the tone, and when the most senior leaders are flippant at best, and cruel at worst, many will understand that to be the permissible standard. — Andrea N. Goldstein, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026 The cost of attending has become eye-watering at best, prohibitive at worst. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026 If a claim is substantiated, the plagiarist is seen as sloppy or lazy at best, and fundamentally dishonest at worst. — Roger J. Kreuz, The Conversation, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at worst

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at worst was in the 14th century

Rhymes for at worst

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Browse Nearby Words

at work
at worst
at wt
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Cite this Entry

“At worst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20worst. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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