Massive: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from the Latin word 'massivus', meaning 'solid or bulky', which reflects its meaning well.
• In the 15th century, it was used in English to describe things that are large or heavy in size.
• The French word 'masse' also contributed to its development in English, linking it to physical weight.

Science

• In physics, mass is a measure of how much matter is in an object, and something that is massive has a high mass.
• The concept of massive objects is important in gravitational physics, where larger masses exert stronger gravitational pulls.
• In astronomy, massive stars end their lives in spectacular supernova explosions, vastly affecting their surroundings.

Pop Culture

• In music, the term 'massive' often describes popular hits that become cultural phenomena, like 'massive' concerts attracting huge crowds.
• The term is frequently used in film descriptions, such as 'massive blockbusters' that greatly surpass box office expectations.
• Certain video games are labeled as 'massive multiplayer games', reflecting their expansive worlds and player interactions.

Psychology

• The perception of massiveness can intimidate or inspire awe in people, influencing feelings of fear or admiration.
• Massive changes in life, like moving to a new city, can create overwhelming feelings and stress.
• Research shows that surroundings perceived as massive can alter human behavior, making people feel smaller and more introspective.

Architecture

• Massive structures like skyscrapers represent human ingenuity and the ability to create large-scale habitats.
• Certain architectural styles prioritize massive materials like stone or concrete, highlighting both strength and permanence.
• Famous landmarks, such as the Great Wall of China, showcase man's ability to create enormous constructions with historical significance.

Ranking #3,500, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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