What does gigantically mean?
“Gigantically” is an adverb meaning “to an enormous extent.” It describes something that is very large in physical size, such as a building or landscape, but it is also commonly used figuratively for dramatic increases, popularity, influence, or impact. In “the mountain range stretched gigantically across the horizon,” the word emphasizes the vast scale of the view. In “the social platform grew gigantically during the following year,” it signals an enormous expansion rather than a modest one. The word is easy to understand and gives writing or speech an emphatic, energetic tone, although in formal contexts a simpler adverb such as “enormously,” “vastly,” or “massively” may be more restrained. Its usefulness lies in combining a clear idea of exceptional scale with a memorable rhythm, while its occasional hyperbole means it should be used where the exaggeration suits the context.
adverbIn a way that is extremely large in size, extent, amount, or effect; to an enormous degree.
- To an enormous degree, especially regarding amount, growth, influence, popularity, or impact.
- In a way characterized by enormous physical size or extent.
"The company's reach grew gigantically after its breakthrough product went viral."
"Her influence in the industry grew gigantically after the breakthrough."
"The ancient tree had grown gigantically, towering over the surrounding forest."
Gigantically is gigantic in overdrive: it makes a superlative feel even larger.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gigantically come from?
The adverb gigantically was formed in the 19th century from gigantic with the adverbial suffix -ly. Gigantic itself entered English in the 17th century from French gigant-esque, ultimately from Greek gigas, meaning “giant.” Its related forms, including gigantism and giganticity, belong to the same etymological family.
How gigantically is actually used
Used in both British and American English. It is strongly emphatic and often informal or hyperbolic, so in formal writing a less expressive adverb may be preferable.
Easily confused with gigantically
Gigantic is an adjective describing something of enormous size, whereas gigantically is the adverb indicating that an action occurs to an enormous extent.