Pronunciation: [bɪhˈiːmɒθ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "behemoth" is unusual and can be confusing for non-native English speakers. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /bɪˈhiːməθ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "buh", the second syllable is a long "ee" sound like "E" in "myth", and the last syllable is pronounced as "th" as in "thin". The word means a large and powerful creature or thing, often used to describe something immense or overwhelming.
Behemoth is a noun that refers to an exceptionally large, powerful, or monstrous creature, typically used to describe an animal or being in mythologies, folklore, or literature. The term originates from Hebrew and is derived from the Bible, specifically the Book of Job, where it is used to depict a mighty beast.
In a literal sense, "behemoth" represents a colossal and awe-inspiring creature that embodies tremendous size and strength, surpassing what is considered normal or typical. It often evokes the image of a massive, ferocious and menacing beast that elicits a sense of fear or admiration.
Furthermore, "behemoth" can be employed more metaphorically to describe any entity, organization, or concept that is gigantic, formidable, dominant, or influential, whether it be in terms of physical size, power, scope, or impact. It conveys the notion of something extraordinary, towering above others in its domain or sphere of influence.
The word "behemoth" often carries connotations of grandiosity and overwhelming presence, suggesting a force or phenomenon that cannot be easily matched or tamed. Its usage can evoke a sense of both fascination and trepidation, as it pertains to entities that are often beyond human comprehension or control. As such, "behemoth" remains a prominent term in literature, mythology, and general discourse when emphasizing exceptional size, strength, or power.
The animal described by Job, and supposed to be the hippopotamus or river-horse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "behemoth" originates from Hebrew, specifically from the Bible. It is derived from the Hebrew word "בְּהֵמוֹת" (behemoth). In the Book of Job (Job 40:15-24), "behemoth" refers to a large, powerful creature, often thought to be a hippopotamus or an elephant. The precise etymology of the Hebrew word is uncertain, but it is often interpreted as a plural form of the Hebrew word "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah), meaning "beast" or "animal". Over time, the term "behemoth" has been adopted into English and is used more broadly to describe any large, powerful, and overwhelming entity.
