prodigy
UK: ˈprɒdɪdʒi | US: ˈprɑːdɪdʒi
n. a person, especially a young one, with exceptional qualities or abilities
n. an extraordinary or miraculous thing; a marvel
prodigy = prodig<omen, sign> + y<noun suffix>
- prodig (from Latin prodigium, meaning "omen, portent, monstrous sign")
- y (noun-forming suffix, often indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "prodigy" traces back to Latin prodigium, which referred to supernatural omens or signs—often ominous or miraculous. Over time, it evolved to denote extraordinary phenomena or individuals, especially those displaying remarkable talent from a young age. The shift from "omen" to "genius" reflects a cultural reinterpretation of exceptionality, where the miraculous became associated with human potential rather than divine signs.
Mozart was a child prodigy who composed music at the age of five.
The technological breakthrough was hailed as a prodigy of modern engineering.
She was a prodigy in mathematics, solving advanced problems by age ten.
Ancient Romans often interpreted natural disasters as prodigies from the gods.
The team’s victory against the champions was seen as a prodigy of determination.