Colossally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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colossally

[kəˈlɒsəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

magnitude, degree

Colossally is an adverb used to describe something in an extremely large or significant manner. It emphasizes the extraordinary scale or extent of an action, event, or object.

Synonyms

enormously, gigantically, immensely, massively.

Examples of usage

  • The plan failed colossally due to poor management.
  • The colossally large statue attracted tourists from all over the world.
  • She miscalculated her budget and was left in colossally high debt.
  • The colossally successful movie broke all box office records.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, grand narratives often use 'colossally' to emphasize the magnitude of characters' trials or stakes.
  • Authors like Victor Hugo employed the term to invoke the vastness of moral and societal issues in their stories.
  • Epic poetry frequently employs 'colossally' to exaggerate conflicts or emotions, making them larger than life.

Science

  • In scientific studies, phenomena described as 'colossally' impactful can alter our understanding of the universe, like discovering new planets.
  • Colossal in the context of geology refers to formations, such as mountains or canyons, which are significantly larger than normal geological features.
  • In biology, terms like 'colossally' evolved to describe rare creatures, such as the colossal squid, showcasing nature's diversity.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in movies and TV shows to exaggerate effects or plot twists, making everything seem more dramatic.
  • Colossal-themed music videos often use imagery that conveys a sense of grandeur and enormity, highlighting the emotional impact on the viewer.
  • Video games sometimes feature bosses that are described as colossal, both literally and figuratively, emphasizing their importance in the storyline.

Psychology

  • In psychology, events or realizations can be described as 'colossally' significant, indicating their profound impact on a person's life or mindset.
  • Colossal shifts in behavior or perspective often refer to significant breakthroughs or changes in a person's psychological state.
  • The concept of 'colossal fears' involves addressing overwhelming anxieties that can affect decision-making or cognitive function.

Origin of 'colossally'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the word 'colossal', which comes from the Latin 'colossalis', meaning enormous or gigantic.
  • It is closely related to the word 'Colossus', referring to a giant statue, specifically the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • The Latin root 'colossa' is derived from the Greek word 'kolossos', which also means a giant statue.

The word 'colossally' derives from the term 'colossal', which itself comes from the Latin 'colossalis', meaning 'gigantic' or 'huge', and traces back to the Greek word 'kolossos', referring to a giant statue. The origin of 'kolossos' is somewhat obscure, but it was historically associated with the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, symbolizing grandeur and immense stature. This link to grandeur has influenced the modern use of 'colossal' and its adverbial form 'colossally', establishing a connection with something extraordinarily large or significant. The word has evolved throughout the centuries and reflects an increase in the dramatic nature of descriptions in literature and everyday language, often used to emphasize the intensity or degree of an action or situation.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,591, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.