Myriad: meaning, definitions and examples
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myriad
[ˈmɪrɪəd ]
Definition
a large number
A myriad is a countless or extremely great number. It can be used to emphasize the vastness or variety of something.
Synonyms
countless, innumerable, multitude, numerous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| myriad |
This word is typically used to imply a very large, and often countless number of something, with an emphasis on variety. It conveys a sense of complexity and vastness.
|
| countless |
Often used to describe something that is so numerous it cannot be counted. It emphasizes the impossibility of quantification.
|
| innumerable |
This word is used when referring to something that is too many to be counted, similar to 'countless,' but with a slightly more formal tone.
|
| multitude |
A large number of individuals or things. This word is often used to refer to a crowd or a large group of people or objects collected together.
|
| numerous |
Used to describe a large number of something. It is somewhat common and not as intense as 'countless' or 'innumerable'.
|
Examples of usage
- There were a myriad of stars twinkling in the night sky.
- She had to choose from a myriad of options for her next vacation destination.
- The internet offers a myriad of resources for learning new skills.
- The artist used a myriad of colors to create a vibrant painting.
- I was overwhelmed by the myriad of tasks I had to complete.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek word 'myrias', which means 'ten thousand'.
- Originally used in ancient Greece, it referred to a large count but was later expanded to mean simply 'a lot'.
- In English, it began to appear in writing around the 14th century, used often in literature.
Literature
- Writers often use 'myriad' to convey overwhelming abundance, making the scene feel rich and alive.
- In poetry, it can emphasize the vastness of emotions or natural landscapes, allowing readers to visualize countless details.
- Famous authors like Ray Bradbury have employed this term to enhance the imagery in their works.
Science
- In ecology, the term is used to describe the vast diversity of species and interactions in ecosystems.
- In astronomy, it can refer to the multitude of stars and celestial bodies, giving a sense of the universe's grandeur.
- The human brain can hold myriad memories, showcasing its incredible capacity for learning and storing information.
Pop Culture
- The term has appeared in various song lyrics to describe a multitude of feelings or experiences.
- It is often used in film and media to portray expansive worlds, reinforcing feelings of adventure and exploration.
- In video games, players might encounter myriad challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the richness of the gaming experience.
Psychology
- Studies show that the perception of having myriad choices can overwhelm individuals, leading to decision paralysis.
- The concept of a myriad of thoughts reflects the complexity of human emotions and mental processes.
- In mindfulness practices, focusing on one aspect can counter the idea of having a 'myriad' of worries at once, helping to reduce anxiety.
Translations
Translations of the word "myriad" in other languages:
🇵🇹 miríade
🇮🇳 असंख्य
🇩🇪 Unzahl
🇮🇩 banyak sekali
🇺🇦 безліч
🇵🇱 mnóstwo
🇯🇵 無数
🇫🇷 myriade
🇪🇸 miríada
🇹🇷 sayısız
🇰🇷 무수함
🇸🇦 عدد لا يحصى
🇨🇿 nespočet
🇸🇰 nespočetné množstvo
🇨🇳 无数
🇸🇮 nešteto
🇮🇸 ógrynni
🇰🇿 сансыз
🇬🇪 უამრავი
🇦🇿 saysız-hesabsız
🇲🇽 miríada