Myriad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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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.
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| countless |
Often used to describe something that is so numerous it cannot be counted. It emphasizes the impossibility of quantification.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| numerous |
Used to describe a large number of something. It is somewhat common and not as intense as 'countless' or 'innumerable'.
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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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'myriad'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'myriad' originated from the Greek word 'murias', which means ten thousand. In ancient Greece, it was used to represent an extremely large number. Over time, the meaning of 'myriad' has evolved to refer to a countless or immense number of things. It has been used in English literature since the 16th century and continues to be a popular word to convey the idea of abundance or variety.