VocabDictionary

colossus

/kəˈlɒs.əs/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A statue of gigantic size and proportions; by extension, anything of immense size, importance, or influence.

Example Sentences:
  • The Colossus of Rhodes was a legendary statue that stood over the harbor entrance.
  • The multinational corporation had grown into an economic colossus, dominating several industries.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “colossus”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

From Latin *colossus*, from Ancient Greek *κολοσσός* (kolossós, 'gigantic statue'). The term originally referred specifically to the Colossus of Rhodes, a massive statue of the sun god Helios, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'colossal', which means extremely large. A colossus is something colossal.

Frequently Asked Questions About “colossus

1. What is the meaning of “colossus” in English?

In English, colossus (noun) is defined as: “A statue of gigantic size and proportions; by extension, anything of immense size, importance, or influence.”.

2. How do you use “colossus” in a sentence?

The Colossus of Rhodes was a legendary statue that stood over the harbor entrance.

3. What are English synonyms of “colossus”?

Common synonyms include:giant,behemoth,titan,mammoth,leviathan

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “colossus”?

From Latin *colossus*, from Ancient Greek *κολοσσός* (kolossós, 'gigantic statue'). The term originally referred specifically to the Colossus of Rhodes, a massive statue of the sun god Helios, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.