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The lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organization.
synonyms:lowest pointbottom
The word 'nadir' comes from the Arabic word 'naẓīr', meaning 'opposite' or 'to the contrary', which was adopted into Medieval Latin as 'nadir'. It originally referred to the lowest point in the heavens beneath the observer's feet, contrasting with 'zenith', which refers to the highest point above.
This word is often used in both everyday conversation and in more formal contexts, such as business or psychology, to describe a low point in circumstances or emotions.
While not an everyday term for most people, 'nadir' is recognized and used in various discussions about personal challenges or organizational crises.
After losing his job and going through a tough breakup, he felt he had reached his nadir.
The company's financial struggles were at their nadir last year, but they've since started to recover.
In the novel, the protagonist's nadir comes when he loses all hope and must find a way to rebuild his life.
The word 'nadir' has an interesting journey from the Arabic language to our own. It paints a vivid picture of the lowest point one can reach, whether in life or in business. Just as the sky has its zenith, the nadir serves as a reminder that life has its ups and downs. This term is valuable not only for its poetic sound but also for its ability to articulate the depths of human experience.