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

ACT 7 (American College Testing)

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Endeavor and Pursuit

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Extremes and Pinnacles

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Middle School 12

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Dictionary Definition of prodigious

Extraordinarily impressive, exceptional, or remarkable in size, extent, skill, or quality.
"He wrote a prodigious number of hit records throughout his career."

Detailed Meaning of Prodigious

When an object, achievement, or talent is referred to as "prodigious," it signifies that it is far beyond what is typically encountered, often leaving a sense of awe or admiration. For instance, a prodigious talent in music suggests an individual possesses an exceptional and awe-inspiring ability in playing an instrument or composing music. A prodigious feat might describe an extraordinary and monumental accomplishment, such as the construction of a massive skyscraper or the completion of a groundbreaking scientific discovery. Overall, "prodigious" conveys the idea of something being on a grand, astonishing scale that stands out as truly extraordinary and worthy of special recognition.

Example Sentences for Prodigious

1. The boy had a prodigious talent for chess and mathematics.
2. He chopped a prodigious supply of firewood for winter.
3. A prodigious sum of money was bid for the painting.
4. He was capable of drinking prodigious amounts of whisky without sluring his words.
5. It was a prodigious opportunity that was too good to turn down.
6. The old man retained a prodigious amount of knowledge and wisdom.

Origin and Etymology of Prodigious

The adjective 'prodigious' has its roots in the Latin word 'prodigiosus,' which evolved from 'prodigium,' meaning 'omen' or 'portent.' This etymology suggests that something 'prodigious' was originally associated with extraordinary or remarkable events or occurrences that were seen as omens or signs of great significance. Over time, the word expanded its meaning to refer to anything that was exceptionally impressive, remarkable, or extraordinary in size, extent, skill, or quality. Thus, the etymology of 'prodigious' connects its modern usage to its historical association with exceptional and portentous phenomena.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective prodigious:

tiny

small

enormous

insignificant

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More Usage Examples of Prodigious

1. She is very proud of her granddaughter who has a prodigious talent for ballet.
2. The old lady lived for over a hundred, prodigious years.
3. He consumed a prodigious amount of ice cream.
4. He made prodigious efforts to raise his children.
5. The company's growth was prodigious, with profits increasing year after year.
6. He was a prodigious athlete, breaking records and winning championships.
7. The artist's prodigious output included thousands of paintings and sculptures.
8. She was a prodigious learner, always seeking out new knowledge and experiences.
9. He was a prodigious talent, excelling in a wide range of fields.
10. The scientist made a prodigious discovery, solving a long-standing mystery in the field.
11. She was a prodigious performer, winning awards and accolades for her acting and singing.
12. The athlete's prodigious strength allowed him to lift weights that most people couldn't even attempt.
13. The company accomplished a prodigious feat, completing the project in record time.
14. The storm caused prodigious damage, with strong winds and heavy rain destroying homes and businesses.