zähsten

Zähsten is the superlative form of the German adjective zäh, meaning tenacious or tough. It is used to indicate the greatest degree of tenacity within a group and can describe people, animals, or objects that resist effort, fatigue, or damage more than others.

Usage and grammar: In standard modern German zäh is declined like other one-syllable adjectives. The attributive plural form is die zähsten, as in die zähsten Kämpfer (the toughest fighters). The corresponding singular forms are der zähste (masculine), die zähste (feminine), and das zähste (neuter). The genitive and dative forms follow regular declension patterns. Adverbially, the form am zähsten is possible but relatively rare; speakers often convey the sense with phrases such as “mit der größten Entschlossenheit” or by context rather than a strict adverbial superlative.

Examples: Die zähsten Kämpfer erreichten das Ziel. Er gehört zu den zähsten Überlebenden des Feldes. In these contexts zähsten functions as a clear, comparative intensifier describing the utmost level of perseverance or resistance within a group.

Etymology and related terms: Zäh originates from older Germanic usage and is linked to the concept of tenacity or resilience. Related terms include Zähigkeit (tenacity, durability) and zäher (tougher). The word is used across figurative and literal domains to express endurance, stubbornness, or resilience.

Notes: The superlative form zähsten is common in plural noun phrases and is typically avoided as a standalone noun. Its usage is straightforward in descriptive writing, sports, competition, and other contexts where comparative strength or persistence is being ranked.