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Grand Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grand

[ษกrand ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

formal

Impressive in size, appearance, or general effect.

Synonyms

imposing, magnificent, majestic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grand

Typically used to describe something large, impressive, or important. Often used for buildings, plans, or events.

  • The hotel lobby was grand and luxurious
  • They had a grand celebration for the New Year
magnificent

Describes something that is extremely beautiful or impressive. Often used for scenery, art, or grand events. It generally has a very positive connotation.

  • The view from the mountain was magnificent
  • The queen wore a magnificent gown
imposing

Used to describe something that is very large and impressive, sometimes in a way that can be intimidating or overwhelming. Often used for buildings or people.

  • The imposing castle stood on top of the hill
  • He had an imposing presence that made everyone pay attention
majestic

Used to describe something that is very beautiful, impressive, and dignified, often with a sense of grandeur and authority. Commonly used for natural scenery, animals, or people in positions of power.

  • The majestic eagle soared through the sky
  • The royal palace looked majestic under the moonlight

Examples of usage

  • The grand old building stood tall in the city center.
  • She made a grand entrance at the party, turning heads with her elegant gown.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A thousand dollars.

Synonyms

big ones, thousand bucks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grand

Used mainly in informal conversations to refer to a thousand units of a currency, commonly dollars.

  • He spent ten grand on a new car.
  • They need five grand to start the business.
thousand bucks

A casual but slightly more formal way than 'grand' or 'big ones' to refer to a thousand dollars or units of currency.

  • He owes me a thousand bucks.
  • The watch cost three thousand bucks.
big ones

A very informal way to refer to thousand units of a currency, especially in casual or slang contexts.

  • He won fifteen big ones at the poker game.
  • I can't believe she saved up twenty big ones for the trip.

Examples of usage

  • He won five grand in the lottery and decided to take a trip around the world.
  • I need to save up some grand for the new car I want to buy.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Many historical buildings, like castles and cathedrals, are described as grand because of their size and detailed design.
  • The Grand Canyon, one of nature's most impressive landmarks, gets its name from its vast size and stunning visuals.

Pop Culture

  • The 'Grand Tour' was a historical travel tradition in the 17th and 18th centuries for European aristocrats to explore culture and art.
  • In movies, many epic films include 'grand' in their titles, such as 'The Grand Budapest Hotel', suggesting a large and elaborate storyline.

Psychology

  • Research shows that individuals who perceive their lives as 'grand' tend to have higher levels of happiness and satisfaction.
  • The concept of 'grandiosity' in psychology refers to an inflated sense of self-importance or worth.

Literature

  • Numerous literary works employ 'grand' themes, often portraying larger-than-life characters or epic journeys.
  • In Shakespeareโ€™s plays, settings are often described as grand, providing a backdrop that reflects the important events taking place.

Origin of 'grand'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'grand' comes from the Latin word 'grandis', meaning 'large' or 'great'.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, evolving in meaning to also include grandeur and magnificence.

The word 'grand' originated from the Old French 'grant' meaning 'large, great'. It entered the English language in the 13th century and has since evolved to represent something impressive or of significant value.

See also: grandad, granddad, grandeur, grandfather, grandiose, grandly, grandma, grandmother, grandpa, grandparent.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,710, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.