What does stupendous mean?
Stupendous is an adjective meaning exceptionally impressive, remarkable, or striking. It is especially associated with things that inspire wonder because of their scale, quality, beauty, or achievement: a stupendous view, a stupendous performance, or a stupendous contribution to science. The word is emphatic and enthusiastic rather than neutral, so it conveys admiration and surprise along with the basic judgment that something is impressive. It can appear in both formal and informal writing, although conversational contexts often make its praise feel especially strong. Stupendous is related etymologically to expressions such as stupefy, stupor, and stupefaction, all of which involve being overwhelmed, stunned, or struck with wonder. The word is therefore useful not only for describing remarkable things but also for preserving the sense of awe that they can produce.
adjectiveRemarkably impressive or striking in size, quality, or achievement. It is often used to express enthusiastic admiration or surprise.
- Remarkably impressive, extraordinary, or striking in a way that inspires admiration and surprise.
"The team made a stupendous recovery and secured a place in the final."
"The scientists made a stupendous discovery that transformed their understanding of the disease."
"From the summit, the mountain range offered a stupendous view across the valley."
Stupendous began with the idea of being so astonishing that it left you stunned with wonder.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stupendous come from?
Stupendous entered English in the early 17th century from Latin stupendus, meaning “to be wondered at” or “to be admired.” The Latin word is based on stupere, “to be struck with wonder,” and has the form of a passive participle. Related English words include stupefy, stupor, and stupefaction, which developed from Latin forms expressing a state of being stunned or overwhelmed.
Related word forms
How stupendous is actually used
The word is strongly expressive and often sounds informal or conversational. It is commonly used for achievements, natural sights, performances, and other things perceived as exceptionally impressive, although it can also occur in formal descriptions.