Envergure

/ˌɑnvɛrˈɡjʊər/ noun

Definition

The scope, span, or extent of something; the breadth or magnitude of reach or understanding.

Etymology

From French 'envergure' originally referring to the wingspan of a bird or aircraft, from 'enverguer' related to spreading wings. The term evolved to mean the broader span or scope of anything.

Kelly Says

This French loanword was used in English particularly in aviation and arts criticism—a painting or musical composition could have 'great envergure,' meaning ambitious scope and reach.

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