myriad

UK: ˈmɪrɪəd | US: ˈmɪriəd

Definition
  1. n. 1. An extremely large number of things or people.

  2. adj. 2. Countless; innumerable.

Structure
myri <ten thousand>ad <noun/adjective suffix>
Etymology

myriad = myri<ten thousand> + ad<noun/adjective suffix>

  • myri (from Greek myrios, meaning "ten thousand" or "countless")
  • ad (a suffix used to form nouns and adjectives, often indicating a collective or abstract quality)

Etymology Origin:
The word "myriad" originates from Greek myrias (genitive myriados), which originally referred to the number 10,000. Over time, it evolved metaphorically in English to signify an uncountable or vast quantity, losing its strict numerical sense. The transition reflects how ancient numerical terms can expand into broader abstract concepts.

Examples
  1. The night sky was filled with a myriad of twinkling stars.

  2. She faced a myriad of challenges when starting her business.

  3. The artist used a myriad of colors to create the vibrant painting.

  4. Social media offers a myriad of ways to connect with others.

  5. His speech addressed the myriad concerns of the community.