Behemoth - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mythical creature

A behemoth is a huge and powerful creature, often depicted as a monstrous beast or giant animal in mythology and folklore. Behemoths are usually described as massive in size, with immense strength and ferocity.

Synonyms

colossus, giant, monster.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
behemoth	Use when referring to something enormous and powerful, often an organization, company, or machine. The tech behemoth unveiled its latest innovation. The ship was a behemoth, towering over everything at the port.
monster	Often used to depict something large and menacing, either literally like a creature or in a negative connotation for organizations or problems. They created a financial monster that almost bankrupted them. The monster truck roared down the track, crushing everything in its path.
giant	Commonly used to describe something very large in size, including people, objects, and companies. It can be both figurative and literal. The tech industry giant announced a merger. He felt like a giant standing next to his tiny classmates.
colossus	Best for describing something or someone that is both enormous and exceptionally important or influential. The new skyscraper is a colossus of modern engineering. In the world of philosophy, Aristotle is a colossus.

Examples of usage

The behemoth in the legend was said to be so large that it could crush mountains with a single step.
The behemoth roared with a deafening sound, striking fear into the hearts of all who heard it.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In the literary world, 'behemoth' often symbolizes unstoppable forces or overwhelming challenges.
The term is used in several works, including Thomas Hobbes' 'Leviathan', where it reflects the power of the state.
Its use in modern literature typically conveys a sense of awe and dread about size and dominance.

Pop Culture

In movies and video games, behemoths are frequently portrayed as colossal monsters that heroes must battle.
The term has been adopted in gaming, often referencing bosses or creatures that are significantly more powerful than players.
Behemoth has also been used as the name for various bands and art projects, emphasizing their grand scale or sound.

Science

In ecology, a 'behemoth' can refer to large animals such as elephants or whales that have a significant impact on their ecosystems.
Some studies compare the term to massive industrial machines that drastically alter the landscape in mining or construction.
The concept is applied to giant structures or projects in engineering, highlighting their size and effect on surroundings.

Psychology

In psychological terms, the idea of a 'behemoth' can refer to overwhelming feelings or stressors that seem too large to manage.
'Behemoth' may also symbolize fears and anxieties that loom large in one's mind, making them feel incapacitated.
The metaphor of a behemoth can be useful in therapy, helping individuals confront their metaphorical giants.

Origin of 'behemoth'

Main points about word origin

The word 'behemoth' comes from the Hebrew word 'b'hemoth', which means 'animals' or 'beasts'.
It first appeared in the Bible, in the Book of Job, describing a giant creature.
Over time, 'behemoth' has evolved to describe anything that is extremely large or powerful.

The word 'behemoth' originated from Hebrew and is mentioned in the Book of Job in the Bible. It is described as a large and powerful creature, symbolizing strength and dominance. Over time, the term has been used to refer to any large or powerful entity, often in a figurative sense.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,472 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32469 ropy
32470 muggy
32471 drowsily
32472 behemoth
32473 cecal
32474 liquefying
32475 laconically
...

Behemoth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations