The compound adjective 'third-highest' is a modern English formation built from two native Germanic elements. 'Third' originates from the Proto-Germanic þridjô, itself derived from the Proto-Indo-European numeral tri-, meaning 'three', with the ordinal suffix. 'Highest' combines the root of 'high', from Proto-Germanic hauhaz (meaning 'tall, lofty'), with the native English superlative suffix -est. The logical construction is purely arithmetic and hierarchical, directly combining the concepts of ordinal position and superlative degree to denote a precise rank. This transparent compounding reflects the analytic nature of English in creating specific comparative descriptors.

Structure: third (ordinal number) + highest (superlative degree) - third: From Old English þridda, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch derde and German dritte. Functions as the ordinal numeral. - highest: From Old English hēah, of Germanic origin, with the superlative suffix -est. Functions as the superlative form of the adjective 'high'.