miracle
- 01 B1 Intermediate
an amazing event that cannot be explained by science and is often believed to come from God.
an event that appears inexplicable by the laws of nature and is held to be supernatural or divine in origin.
Simple“The religious text describes a miracle where a small amount of food fed thousands.”
In context“The pilgrims travelled to the shrine in hopes of witnessing a miracle that would cure their ailments.”
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
a very lucky or successful thing that happens when it seemed impossible.
a fortunate outcome that prevails despite overwhelming odds against it; often used figuratively.
Simple“It was a miracle that everyone survived the plane crash without any injuries.”
In context“Given the severity of the damage to the vehicle, it is a minor miracle that the driver walked away with only bruises.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a person or thing that is a wonderful example of a particular quality.
an exceptional or amazing example of a specific quality, achievement, or phenomenon.
Simple“The new bridge is a miracle of modern engineering and design.”
In context“The surgeon's ability to repair such complex nerve damage was hailed as a miracle of medical science.”
Synonyms
“Now another minor miracle will surely be required if Premier League survival is to be secured.”
“Still, it’s a minor miracle we’re even meeting today.”
From Middle English miracle, from Old French miracle, from Latin mīrāculum (“object of wonder”), from mīror (“to wonder at”), from mīrus (“wonderful”), from Proto-Indo-European *(s)meyh₂- (“to smile, to be astonished”). Doublet of milagro and miraculum. Partially displaced native wonder, from Old English wundor (“miracle, wonder”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.