English Reference
adjective · noun · adverb

almighty

adj. · n. · adv.
US /ɔɫˈmaɪti/ UK /ɒlmˈaɪti/ almighty

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Religion

    adj.having total power over everything.

    adj.having unlimited power; omnipotent. Often used in religious or mythological contexts.

    Simple

    In many ancient stories, the gods were seen as almighty beings who controlled the weather.

    In context

    The doctrine describes an almighty creator whose influence extends across every facet of the physical and spiritual realms.

    Usage

    Often placed before the noun, but can be postpositive in fixed religious titles.

    omnipotentall powerful
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishInformal

    adj.used to emphasize how big, loud, or powerful something is.

    adj.used as an intensifier to denote extreme force, volume, or scale.

    Simple

    There was an almighty crash in the kitchen when the shelf fell down.

    In context

    The engine failure was followed by an almighty bang that sent the ground crew scrambling for safety.

    Usage

    Typically used before a noun to emphasize a negative or sudden event.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal Religion

    n.a name used for God.

    n.a title for the Supreme Being in monotheistic religions.

    Simple

    The monks spent their lives in service to the Almighty.

    In context

    The text concludes with a prayer for mercy from the Almighty, reflecting the deep piety of the era.

    Usage

    Always capitalized and usually preceded by the definite article 'the'.

    godthe creatorthe lord
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency InformalSlang

    adv.very or extremely.

    adv.used as an intensifier meaning 'extremely' or 'thoroughly'.

    Simple

    That was an almighty difficult exam, and I am glad it is over.

    In context

    It was an almighty long walk back to the station in the pouring rain.

    Usage

    Functions as a degree adverb modifying an adjective.

When you worship, you ask the Almighty for “forgiveness.” Or you may ask a friend you’ve offended for “forgiveness.” But when a student loan borrower doesn’t pay, the debt isn’t forgiven.

Toronto Sun· 21 Aug 2026

The star’s name alone causes an almighty eye-roll today from Almodóvar, stye or no stye.

The Guardian· 21 Aug 2026

From Middle English þe Almyȝty, þe Almihtiȝ, from Old English sē Ælmihtiġa (literally “the Almighty (One)”). More at almighty.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old English Ælmihtiġ
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated