Monstrous is spelled /ˈmɒnstrəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word has its roots in Latin ‘monstrum’, which means ‘prodigy or omen’. The -ous ending is derived from French -eux, which means ‘full of or having the quality of’. The spelling of the word follows a common pattern in English, where the 'ou' combination is pronounced as /ɒ/ (as in ‘pot’), not as /uː/ (as in ‘fool’). Monstrous is an adjective used to describe something that is abnormal or frighteningly large.
Monstrous is an adjective that describes something as extremely large, powerful, or imposing, often in a negative or intimidating way. It can refer to size, appearance, or behavior, and is closely associated with the concept of being abnormal, bizarre, or terrifying.
In terms of size, a monstrous object or creature is one that exceeds normal dimensions, being either remarkably large or excessively massive. For instance, a monstrous wave would refer to an abnormally huge and powerful sea wave. It can also indicate something of significant intensity or degree, for example, a monstrous effort or monstrous appetite.
Monstrous can also describe abnormal or grotesque appearances, such as a monstrous face, meaning a hideous or frightful countenance. This usage can extend to describing something as abnormal or unnatural, as if it defies conventional expectations or norms.
Furthermore, in relation to behavior, monstrous can characterize acts or traits that are extremely cruel, wicked, or evil. It denotes frightening or savage behavior, often associated with a complete lack of empathy or morality. For instance, a monstrous act might refer to a particularly heinous crime committed with brutality.
Overall, the term monstrous portrays a sense of awe, fear, or revulsion, indicating that something deviates from the ordinary or desired standards, whether in terms of size, appearance, or behavior. It implies an extreme or exaggerated characteristic that stands out and elicits strong emotions or reactions.
• Unnatural in form; huge; enormous; shocking; hateful; horrible.
• In a monstrous manner; exceedingly; very much.
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 "monstrous" originated from the Latin adjective "monstruosus", which is derived from the noun "monstrum", meaning "monster". In Latin, "monstrum" referred to an omen or a sign indicating something unusual or extraordinary. It is a combination of "monere" (to warn or advise) and "trium" (to show or demonstrate). Over time, the word "monstrous" developed in English to describe something abnormal, enormous, or unnatural, often associated with creatures or phenomena seen as threatening or grotesque.