Magnificent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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magnificent

[mรฆษกหˆnษชfษชsnt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing something impressive

Extremely beautiful, elaborate, or impressive; majestic. Remarkable, outstanding, or striking in appearance or character. Grand or splendid in appearance.

Synonyms

gorgeous, grand, impressive, majestic, splendid.

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Word Description / Examples
magnificent

Describes something that is very beautiful and impressive, often used for buildings, scenery or performances.

  • The palace was absolutely magnificent.
  • She gave a magnificent performance in the opera.
splendid

Used to express something wonderful or very good, often used for events, experiences, or visual appeal.

  • They had a splendid evening at the gala.
  • The garden was in splendid bloom.
gorgeous

Used to describe something or someone that is very attractive or beautiful, often applied to people, clothing, or natural beauty.

  • She wore a gorgeous red dress.
  • The sunset over the mountains was simply gorgeous.
impressive

Describes something that evokes admiration due to its size, quality, or skill, often used for achievements, performances, or objects.

  • The athlete's performance was very impressive.
  • The new building is quite impressive.
majestic

Describes something that has a great dignity or beauty, often used for natural landscapes, animals, or royalty.

  • The majestic lion roamed the savannah.
  • The mountains looked majestic at sunrise.
grand

Implies something large in scale and impressive in nature, often used for plans, designs, or buildings.

  • They have a grand vision for the future.
  • The grand staircase was a centerpiece of the mansion.

Examples of usage

  • The view from the top of the mountain was truly magnificent.
  • She wore a magnificent gown to the ball.
  • The orchestra delivered a magnificent performance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • Many famous paintings are described as magnificent due to their breathtaking colors and intricate details.
  • The term is often used in art critiques to denote not just beauty but also the emotional impact of a work.
  • Architectural masterpieces, like cathedrals, are described as magnificent, representing human creativity at its best.

Nature

  • Natural wonders like the Aurora Borealis are often referred to as magnificent due to their stunning visual display.
  • The beauty of the Grand Canyon is a magnificent sight, showcasing nature's artistry.
  • Certain animals, like peacocks, are called magnificent because of their vibrant and striking feathers.

Literature

  • Classic literature often portrays heroes or places as magnificent to symbolize greatness and aspiration.
  • Authors like Shakespeare used the term to evoke feelings of awe in their descriptions, creating lasting imagery.
  • In poetry, the word conveys a sense of majesty that enhances the theme and emotional depth of the work.

Pop Culture

  • In films, extravagant scenes are often labeled as magnificent to highlight their emotional intensity.
  • The term has been popularized through songs that celebrate love and beauty, emphasizing grand gestures.
  • Social media influencers use 'magnificent' to describe luxurious experiences and destinations, appealing to their audience's aspirations.

Origin of 'magnificent'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'magnificentem', which means 'great' or 'noble'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, adding not just beauty but also a sense of grandeur.
  • The prefix 'magn-' means 'large' or 'great', reinforcing its connection to splendor.

The word 'magnificent' originated from the Latin word 'magnificentia', which means 'splendor, nobility'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century and has been used to describe something grand or impressive ever since. The word has evolved over time to represent beauty, impressiveness, and grandeur.


See also: magnifier.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,928, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.