Monstrous

/ˈmɑnstrəs/ adjective

Definition

Extremely large, ugly, or evil; shockingly bad or wrong.

Etymology

From Latin 'monstrum' (monster), originally meaning a prodigy or portent sent by the gods. It evolved to describe anything abnormally large or hideously evil.

Kelly Says

The original 'monsters' weren't just scary creatures—they were divine warnings! Ancient Romans believed monsters were messages from the gods about future disasters, so 'monstrous' originally meant 'prophetically significant' before it just meant 'horrible'!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.