colossal etymology

Etymology

The word "colossal" comes from the Latin word "colossus," which in turn comes from the Greek word "kolossos." The Greek word "kolossos" referred to a very large statue, specifically the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Meaning and Origin

The word "colossal" means "extremely large or impressive." It is often used to describe something that is physically large or imposing, but it can also be used figuratively to describe something that is very important or significant.

The word "colossal" first appeared in the English language in the 16th century. It was originally used to describe the Colossus of Rhodes. However, the word has since come to be used in a more general sense to describe anything that is very large or impressive.

Examples

  • A colossal statue of Zeus stood in the Temple of Olympia.
  • The Grand Canyon is a colossal natural wonder.
  • The Beatles' album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" was a colossal success.
  • The Eiffel Tower is a colossal landmark in Paris.
  • The Great Barrier Reef is a colossal ecosystem.

colossal relate terms

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    Etymology The word colossus is derived from the ancient Greek word κολοσσός

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