The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

colossus

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Dictionary definition of colossus

A gigantic or monumental statue or sculpture that typically represents a deity, legendary figure, or an imposing entity.
"The massive colossus dominated the skyline of the city."

Detailed meaning of colossus

The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a person or thing of immense size, strength, or influence. Originally derived from the ancient Greek word "kolossos," meaning a large statue, a colossus is often characterized by its massive scale and awe-inspiring presence. In historical contexts, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, serves as a prominent example. A colossus symbolizes power, grandeur, and majesty, capturing the attention and admiration of onlookers. In a figurative sense, it denotes a person or entity that possesses great importance, significance, or impact in a particular field, domain, or society. The term "colossus" evokes a sense of magnificence, immensity, and significance, whether in the form of a physical statue or as a metaphorical representation of an extraordinary individual or entity.

Example sentences containing colossus

1. The ancient city boasted a towering colossus at its entrance.
2. Tourists flocked to see the famous colossus of a legendary warrior.
3. The colossus cast a long shadow over the surrounding landscape.
4. The colossus stood as a symbol of power and authority.
5. The artist sculpted a miniature replica of the colossus in exquisite detail.
6. Visitors marveled at the engineering marvel that was the colossus.

History and etymology of colossus

The noun 'colossus' has a rich etymology that dates back to ancient Greece. It originates from the Greek word 'kolossos,' which referred to a massive statue or sculpture. The most famous example of a 'colossus' from antiquity was the Colossus of Rhodes, a gigantic statue of the sun god Helios that stood at the entrance of the harbor of Rhodes. This immense sculpture inspired the use of the term 'colossus' to describe any enormous or monumental statue, often representing a deity, legendary figure, or imposing entity. The etymology of 'colossus' underscores the historical association with colossal and awe-inspiring works of art and sculpture that have left a lasting legacy in the world of art and architecture.

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Further usage examples of colossus

1. The fallen colossus was a reminder of a bygone era.
2. The citizens revered the colossus as a cultural icon.
3. The story of the colossus was passed down through generations.
4. The colossus was a testament to the craftsmanship of its creators.
5. The colossus inspired a sense of awe and wonder in all who beheld it.
6. The colossus of a mountain stood tall against the horizon.
7. The ancient ruins revealed the remnants of a colossal statue.
8. The colossus of technology, the smartphone, has revolutionized communication.
9. The colossus of literature, Shakespeare, continues to inspire generations.
10. The boxer unleashed a colossus of a punch, knocking out his opponent.
11. The art gallery showcased a collection of colossi sculptures.
12. The political leader was regarded as a colossus in his field.
13. The colossus of a wave crashed onto the shore, drenching beachgoers.
14. The company's CEO was a colossus of the business world.
15. The architecture of the ancient colossus was awe-inspiring.
16. The colossus of an oak tree provided shade for the park visitors.
17. The statue of liberty is a colossus symbolizing freedom.
18. The colossus of a storm left behind a trail of destruction.
19. The athlete's performance was colossus, breaking several records.
20. The colossus of a ship sailed majestically across the ocean.
21. The colossus of a skyscraper dominated the city's skyline.
22. The colossus of an idea sparked a global movement.
23. The mythological creature was described as a colossus with multiple heads.
24. The inventor's creation was a colossus of innovation.
25. The colossus of a problem required a team effort to solve.