# monolith

/ˈmɑnəˌɫɪθ/ (US) · /mˈɒnəʊlˌɪθ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/monolith
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

A computer program built as one single, large piece. All its parts are joined together, making it simple to start with but harder to change or update later compared to modern microservices.

For teachers: A software architecture pattern where the entire application is composed as a single, indivisible unit. While easier to develop and deploy initially, it lacks the modularity of microservices, meaning a small change requires redeploying the whole system. This term also refers to a large, single stone block.

## Examples

- The team decided to break their old monolith into smaller services.
- Because the application was a monolith, even a tiny bug fix required us to restart the entire system.
- While a monolith is often easier for small teams to manage at first, it can become a bottleneck as the codebase grows and becomes too complex for one person to understand.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically to describe institutions that appear massive, indivisible, and inflexible.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.