Word
gigantic
Phoneticsgi·gan·tic, stress on the second syllable
US/dʒaɪˈɡænɪk/
UK/dʒaɪɡˈæntɪk/
Definitions
01extremely large
B1 · Intermediate
adj. extremely large or huge, much bigger than normal.
adj. of extraordinary size, magnitude, or power; exceeding the typical dimensions of its kind.
“The ship looked gigantic as it sailed into the small harbour.”
“The construction of the gigantic skyscraper required innovative engineering techniques to withstand the high-altitude wind pressures.”
Usage
Often used to emphasize the scale of physical objects or natural features.
02excellent
C1 · Advanced Slang
adj. very good, exciting, or impressive.
adj. denoting excellence or high quality; used as a superlative of approval.
“We had a gigantic time at the concert last night.”
“The party was absolutely gigantic, with music and dancing that lasted until the early hours of the morning.”
Teaching tip
This sense is somewhat dated; modern speakers are more likely to use 'awesome' or 'massive' in a similar way.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek γιγαντικός (gigantikós), ultimately from γίγας (gígas, “giant”). According to the Poly-Olbion project coined by Michael Drayton in 1612.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/gigantic