miracle

[mir-uh-kuhl]

noun

1. an effect or extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to a supernatural cause.

2. such an effect or event manifesting or considered as a work of God.

3. a wonder; marvel.

4. a wonderful or surpassing example of some quality.

   a miracle of modern acoustics.

5. miracle play.

miracle

/ ˈmɪrəkəl /

noun

1. an event that is contrary to the established laws of nature and attributed to a supernatural cause

2. any amazing or wonderful event

3. a person or thing that is a marvellous example of something

   the bridge was a miracle of engineering

4. short for miracle play

5. (modifier) being or seeming a miracle

   a miracle cure

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

First recorded in 1125–75; Middle English miracle, miracul, from Old French miracle, from Latin mīrāculum, from mīrā(rī) “to wonder at” + -culum -cle ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

C12: from Latin mīrāculum, from mīrārī to wonder at

Example Sentences

“It’s a miracle no one was more seriously injured,” McShain said.

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“People are waiting for miracles,” he says finally.

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One MP who has been in the Commons for two decades says: "No one is expecting instant miracles nor is there urgent appetite for a coup."

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"It feels like an absolute miracle that he's been found."

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The number of shows that we push out at the level they are produced is a miracle to me.

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Related Words

• marvel 
• phenomenon 
• rarity 
• revelation 
• surprise 
• wonder