C1noun2K

Peak

UK /["/piːk/"]/US /["/piːk/"]/

Definition

the point when somebody/something is best, most successful, strongest, etc.

In simple words: the highest point of something, like a mountain or a time

Examples

  • They reached the mountain peak after a long and exhausting climb.
  • Sales typically reach their peak during the holiday season.
  • The athlete was at the peak of her career when she won the gold medal.
  • During peak hours, the roads are usually very congested.
  • The peak of the roof was covered in fresh snow after the storm.
  • Peak energy consumption occurs in the late afternoon.
  • Radio signals were strongest at the peak of the broadcast tower.
  • The company's profits hit their peak last quarter before declining.

Usage notes

Use 'peak' when referring to the highest part, such as in 'the peak of the mountain' or 'the peak of my career.' Avoid using it in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

peak + at (something)

Memory hint

Think of a mountain peak; it's at the very top, just like the best time or moment.

Collocations

  • all-time
  • seasonal
  • summer
  • rise to
  • rise towards/​toward
  • hit
  • hours
  • period
  • season
  • at a/​the/​your peak
  • peak of
  • in peak condition
  • peaks and troughs
  • high
  • lofty
  • towering
  • climb
  • conquer
  • scale
  • loom
  • rise
  • tower
  • on a/​the peak

Synonyms

  • height

Antonyms

  • valley
  • bottom
  • low point

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'peek'; they sound similar but have different meanings.
  • Using it as a verb when it should be an adjective (e.g., 'the peak time' instead of 'peaking time').