apex

¹

[ ey-peks ]

noun

, plural a·pex·es, a·pi·ces [ey, -p, uh, -seez, ap, -, uh, -].

1. the tip, point, or vertex; summit.
2. climax; peak; acme:

   His election to the presidency was the apex of his career.

3. Astronomy. solar apex.

APEX

²

[ ey-peks ]

noun

1. a type of international airfare offering reduced rates for extended stays that are booked in advance.

apex

¹

/ ˈeɪpɛks /

noun

1. the highest point; vertex
2. the pointed end or tip of something
3. a pinnacle or high point, as of a career, etc
4. Also calledsolar apex astronomy the point on the celestial sphere, lying in the constellation Hercules, towards which the sun appears to move at a velocity of 20 kilometres per second relative to the nearest stars

APEX

²

/ ˈeɪpɛks /

acronym for

1. Advance Purchase Excursion: a reduced airline or long-distance rail fare that must be paid a specified number of days in advance
2. (in Britain) Association of Professional, Executive, Clerical, and Computer Staff

Word History and Origins

Origin of apex¹

Borrowed into English from Latin around 1595–1605

Origin of apex²

First recorded in 1970–75; A(dvance) P(urchase) Ex(cursion)

Word History and Origins

Origin of apex¹

C17: from Latin: point

Example Sentences

"The metallic tip acts like an antenna and focusses the electromagnetic field in a tiny area below its apex."

From Science Daily

The rule with which he complied - and which many of his rivals want changed - says that if the driver on the inside is ahead at the apex of the corner, he does not have to leave space for the driver on the outside on the exit.

From BBC

In a recent email interview, he added that, “The auction will be the apex of its career. I’m eager to see what the answers will be.”

From New York Times

The frozen carcass provides a remarkable snapshot of a bygone apex predator.

From Science Magazine

If we’re at the apex of oligarchs flaunting their wealth, what’s the best historical parallel to this moment?

From Slate

Related Words

• apogee
• culmination
• pinnacle