prodigious etymology

Etymology

The word "prodigious" comes from the Latin word "prodigium," meaning "a portent, omen, or marvel." It originally referred to an extraordinary or unusual event, often seen as a sign from the gods.

Meaning

In modern English, "prodigious" has two main meanings:

• Remarkably great in size, extent, or quantity:

  • "The prodigiously talented young pianist gave a stunning performance."
  • "There was a prodigious amount of snow that winter."

• Extraordinary or unusual:

  • "The magician's prodigious illusions left the audience spellbound."
  • "Her prodigious knowledge of obscure history amazed her peers."

Origin

The Latin word "prodigium" is derived from the verb "prodo," meaning "to produce" or "to bring forth." It originally referred to something that was considered to be a sign or omen from the gods, often associated with good or bad fortune. In ancient Roman religion, prodigies were observed and interpreted by priests and augurs to guide the decisions of the state.

Over time, the word "prodigious" evolved to also refer to extraordinary or unusual events or things that were not necessarily associated with divine intervention. By the 16th century, it had acquired its modern meaning of "remarkably great or unusual."

prodigious relate terms

• prodigy

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• adage

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• stupendous

  Etymology The word stupendous originates from the Latin word stupere which means to

• exceptional

  Etymology The word exceptional comes from the Latin word exceptio which means excep

• Olympian

• phenomenal

  Etymology The word phenomenal is derived from the Greek word phainómenon meaning t

• aphid

  Etymology Aphid is derived from Greek αφίς aphis meaning a louse that infests

• contradiction

  Etymology The word contradiction is derived from the Latin word contradictio which i

• powerful

  Etymology The word powerful is derived from the Old French word poëste 12th centur

• strike

  Etymology The word strike comes from the Middle English word striken which is derive

• maroon

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• accord

  Etymology The word accord has its roots in Latin accordāre to be in agreement