prodigious
UK: prəˈdɪdʒ.əs | US: prəˈdɪdʒ.əs
adj. remarkably large in size, extent, or degree
adj. extraordinary in a way that inspires awe or wonder
adj. (archaic) ominous or portentous
The word "prodigious" traces back to the Latin prodigium, which referred to supernatural signs or omens (often awe-inspiring or terrifying). Over time, the meaning shifted from "ominous" to "extraordinary in size or degree," reflecting how such phenomena were perceived as beyond normal limits. The suffix -ious (via Old French -ieux) solidified its adjectival form, emphasizing the quality of being awe-inspiring or immense.
The prodigious waves during the storm terrified the sailors.
She displayed a prodigious talent for music at an early age.
The project required a prodigious amount of effort to complete.
His prodigious memory allowed him to recall every detail of the event.
The ancient text described prodigious events foretelling the king’s downfall.