ENGLISH
REFERENCE

fabulous

adj.
US //ˈfæbjəɫəs// UK //fˈæbjʊləs// fab·u·lous
  1. 1 wonderful (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    very good, excellent, or impressive.

    used as an intensive to express high approval or admiration. Often used in informal speech to describe experiences or appearances.

    Example

    We had a fabulous time at the party last night.

    Example

    The resort offered fabulous views of the coastline, making it a popular destination for photographers and tourists alike.
  2. 2 fashionable (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    looking very stylish, glamorous, or attractive.

    denoting a high degree of style, glamour, or aesthetic appeal. Often carries a sense of performative or high-fashion elegance.

    Example

    She looked absolutely fabulous in her new silk dress.

    Example

    The gala was filled with fabulous guests wearing avant-garde designs that pushed the boundaries of modern fashion.
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  1. 3 mythical (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    relating to fables or old stories about magic and heroes.

    pertaining to, or of the nature of, a fable or myth. Often used to describe legendary creatures or impossible wealth.

    Example

    The book is full of fabulous creatures like dragons and unicorns.

    Example

    The explorer spent his life searching for the fabulous city of gold mentioned in ancient Spanish chronicles.
  2. 4 incredible (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    so great or large that it is hard to believe.

    resembling a fable in being exaggerated or incredible; exceeding the bounds of probability.

    Example

    The company grew at a fabulous speed during its first year.

    Example

    The monarch was known for his fabulous wealth, which was said to exceed the combined treasuries of all his neighbours.
Origin

From Late Middle English fabulous, fabulose, from Latin fābulōsus (“celebrated in fable”); Equivalent to fable + -ous.

Word family

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