Vocabulary word Momentous - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

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Dictionary Definition of momentous

Of significant importance, marked by its far-reaching consequences or potential to bring about profound change.
"The moon landing was a momentous achievement for humanity."

Detailed Meaning of Momentous

When something is deemed momentous, it signifies that it is not just noteworthy but also carries a weighty impact on the course of history, individuals, or circumstances. Momentous events can include major political developments, groundbreaking scientific discoveries, pivotal decisions in one's personal life, or historic milestones that shape societies and cultures. "Momentous" underscores the idea of the exceptional significance and enduring impact of such occurrences, emphasizing their capacity to leave a lasting mark on the world or the lives of those involved.

Example Sentences for Momentous

1. The moon landing was a momentous event in human history.
2. Her promotion marked a momentous milestone in her career.
3. The signing of the peace treaty was a momentous achievement.
4. Graduating from college is a momentous occasion for many.
5. The invention of the internet was a momentous technological leap.
6. The birth of a child is a momentous event for any family.

Origin and Etymology of Momentous

The adjective 'momentous' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'momentum,' which means 'movement' or 'motion.' This term was originally associated with physics and referred to the force of a moving object, its impetus, or the force that keeps something in motion. Over time, 'momentum' came to be used metaphorically to describe the force or significance of an event that carries it forward, much like the momentum of a moving object. Thus, 'momentous' emerged as an adjective in English to describe events or situations of significant importance, marked by their far-reaching consequences or their potential to bring about profound change, emphasizing the dynamic and powerful nature of such occurrences.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective momentous:

significant

minor

trivial

insignificant

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More Usage Examples of Momentous

1. His speech had a momentous impact on public opinion.
2. The discovery of antibiotics was a momentous breakthrough.
3. Voting in your first election is a momentous civic duty.
4. Winning the championship was a momentous victory for the team.
5. The fall of the Berlin Wall was a momentous turning point.
6. The Supreme Court's decision was a momentous legal precedent.
7. The adoption of the constitution was a momentous step.
8. The discovery of fire was a momentous development for early humans.
9. The stock market crash had momentous economic repercussions.
10. The invention of the printing press was a momentous leap forward.
11. The civil rights movement brought about momentous social change.
12. The unveiling of a new technology can be momentous in business.
13. The wedding day is a momentous occasion in one's life.
14. Landing a dream job can be a momentous career achievement.
15. The signing of the peace treaty was a momentous occasion.
16. The birth of a child is a momentous event in a family's life.
17. The Supreme Court decision was a momentous victory for civil rights.
18. The invention of the internet was a momentous technological breakthrough.
19. The fall of the Berlin Wall was a momentous moment in history.
20. The passing of the Civil Rights Act was a momentous step forward for equality.
21. The discovery of penicillin was a momentous breakthrough in medicine.
22. The election of the first female president was a momentous occasion for gender equality.
23. The 9/11 terrorist attacks were a momentous tragedy for the world.
24. The abolition of slavery was a momentous victory for human rights.
25. The founding of the United Nations was a momentous achievement for international cooperation.