Momentous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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momentous

[mษ™หˆmษ›ntษ™s ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

important event

Of great importance or significance, especially in its effect on the future.

Synonyms

epoch-making, historic, significant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
momentous

Used to describe an event or decision of great importance or significance, often with long-term effects.

  • Graduating from college was a momentous occasion in her life.
  • The CEO's resignation was a momentous decision for the company.
significant

Used to describe something that is important or meaningful, but not necessarily of great historical importance.

  • Receiving that award was significant for her career.
  • The changes in the policy could have a significant effect on the company.
historic

Describes an event, place, or period that is significant in history, often recognized for its impact or importance.

  • Neil Armstrong's moon landing was a historic moment for humanity.
  • The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a historic event.
epoch-making

Refers to an event or period that has a profound and lasting impact on history or on a specific field.

  • The invention of the internet was an epoch-making development in communication.
  • Darwin's theory of evolution was an epoch-making contribution to science.

Examples of usage

  • It was a momentous decision that would change the course of history.
  • The discovery of penicillin was a momentous breakthrough in the field of medicine.
Context #2 | Adjective

significant achievement

Very important or significant, especially because of being a very great achievement.

Synonyms

extraordinary, notable, remarkable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
momentous

Use this word when describing an event of great importance or significance that will have a lasting impact.

  • The declaration of independence was a momentous occasion in the country's history
remarkable

Best used when referring to something or someone that is extraordinary and worthy of being noticed or mentioned due to its uniqueness or impressiveness.

  • Her recovery from the illness was truly remarkable
notable

This is appropriate for people or events that are worthy of attention or are significant in some way, but not necessarily rare or surprising.

  • He was a notable figure in the world of science
extraordinary

This word is suitable for situations and things that are unusual, amazing, or highly exceptional.

  • She had an extraordinary talent for painting

Examples of usage

  • Winning the Nobel Prize was a momentous occasion for the scientist.
  • The moon landing was a momentous achievement for mankind.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many authors use the word to describe key events in their stories that affect the characters' journeys.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often experience momentous revelations that alter their fate.
  • The term is used in speeches and narratives to heighten the drama of crucial turning points.

History

  • Historical events like the signing of the Declaration of Independence are considered momentous as they shaped a nation.
  • The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was a momentous occasion, symbolizing the end of the Cold War.
  • Significant moments in civil rights movements are often deemed momentous for their impact on society's structure.

Pop Culture

  • In films, momentous scenes often involve a character's transformation or realization that drives the plot forward.
  • Music lyrics frequently highlight momentous relationships or life-changing events, resonating with audiences' experiences.
  • Television series often build up to momentous cliffhangers that leave viewers eager for what's next.

Psychology

  • Momentous experiences can trigger strong emotional responses, shaping individual identities.
  • Psychologists study how people remember momentous occasions and how they influence future behavior.
  • Research shows that significant life events often lead to shifts in perspectives and priorities.

Origin of 'momentous'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'momentosus', meaning 'full of moment' or 'significant'.
  • In the early 19th century, it was adopted into English, emphasizing the gravity of certain circumstances.
  • It is often used in contexts where events lead to major changes or decisions.

The word 'momentous' originates from the Late Latin word 'momentosus', which means 'of consequence'. It entered the English language in the late 17th century. The term has been used to describe significant events, achievements, or decisions that have a lasting impact on the future. The etymology of 'momentous' reflects its essence - marking moments that are of great importance and significance.


See also: momentarily, momentary, moments, momentum.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,953, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.