VocabDictionary

ultra

/ˈʌl.trə/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Extreme; going well beyond what is considered moderate, normal, or conventional.

Example Sentences:
  • She follows an ultra-strict diet that excludes all processed sugars and grains.
  • The project was completed under ultra-secret conditions.
2.noun

An extremist, especially in politics; someone who holds radical, uncompromised views.

Example Sentences:
  • The political party split into moderates and ultras.
  • He is known as an ultra who refuses to negotiate with the opposition.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ultra”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived directly from the Latin preposition and adverb 'ultra', meaning 'beyond', 'on the other side', or 'past'. It is related to the comparative of 'ulter' (that on the further side). In English, it began functioning as a prefix and later as a standalone noun and adjective in the 19th and 20th centuries to describe extremist political views or things that go far beyond normal limits.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'ultraviolet' light, which goes *beyond* the violet light we can see, to remember that 'ultra' means beyond or extremely far.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “ultra

1. What is the meaning of “ultra” in English?

In English, ultra (adjective) is defined as: “Extreme; going well beyond what is considered moderate, normal, or conventional.”.

2. How do you use “ultra” in a sentence?

She follows an ultra-strict diet that excludes all processed sugars and grains.

3. What are English synonyms of “ultra”?

Common synonyms include:extreme,radical,excessive,super

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ultra”?

Derived directly from the Latin preposition and adverb 'ultra', meaning 'beyond', 'on the other side', or 'past'. It is related to the comparative of 'ulter' (that on the further side). In English, it began functioning as a prefix and later as a standalone noun and adjective in the 19th and 20th centuries to describe extremist political views or things that go far beyond normal limits.