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REFERENCE

immense

adj.
US //ˌɪˈmɛns// UK //ɪmˈɛns// im·mense
  1. 1 extremely large (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    extremely large in size or scale.

    vast or huge in physical dimensions or scale.

    Example

    The ship was so immense that it took several minutes to walk from one end to the other.

    Example

    The explorers stood in awe before the immense glacier, which stretched toward the horizon like a frozen sea.
  2. 2 great in degree (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    very great in amount or power, such as a feeling or a task.

    extraordinary in degree, intensity, or magnitude.

    Example

    She felt an immense sense of relief after she finished her final exam.

    Example

    The project required an immense amount of concentration, as even a minor calculation error could compromise the entire structural design.
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  1. 3 excellent (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Informal British English

    extremely good or impressive.

    used as a superlative to indicate high quality or excellence.

    Example

    The atmosphere at the concert last night was absolutely immense.

    Example

    The team put in an immense performance during the second half, securing their place in the championship final.

    Usage

    Often used as a predicative adjective after 'be' or 'feel'.

    Teacher's tip

    This usage is particularly common in British youth slang and informal sports commentary; learners should use it sparingly in professional contexts.
Origin

From Middle English immens, inmens, from Old French immense, from Latin immensus, from in- (“not”) + mensus (“measured”). Compare incommensurable.

Word family

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