monumental
Americanadjective
-
like a monument, esp in large size, endurance, or importance
a monumental work of art
-
of, relating to, or being a monument
-
informal (intensifier)
monumental stupidity
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of monumental
From the Late Latin word monumentālis, dating back to 1595–1605. See monument, -al 1
Explanation
Whether it's a monumental effort requiring vast amounts of strength or a monumental cruise ship with eleven floors and five sets of elevators, the word monumental describes something imposing or massive in size. Monumental can also refer to something that's of outstanding importance or significance. A monumental decision for you would be one that changes your life — like the day you got engaged or when you decided to move to New York to be an actor. The word monumental can also be used if you're talking about a monument, a statue or structure commemorating a person or event. You might admire the monumental stonework on the statue in the town square.
Vocabulary lists containing monumental
The Maze Runner
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Stargirl
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Living Large: Synonyms for "Big"
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Monumental Nature includes 30 works across the botanic gardens in west London and will run until 31 January 2027.
From BBC • May 9, 2026
BBC Film, Lionsgate and BBC Studios gave the green light to make the feature film to Monumental Television, part of ITV Studios.
From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026
A second half headed goal from Flamengo center-back Danilo settled a scrappy encounter at the Estadio Monumental in Lima – the fifth Libertadores final in the past six seasons to feature two clubs from Brazil.
From Barron's • Nov. 29, 2025
Curated by Erin Christovale, “Alice Coltrane: Monumental Eternal” dives deep into the spiritual and sonic worlds of the jazz icon and devotional leader that Coltrane was, and her lasting influence on art and music.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2025
Accordingly, on August 1, 1812, the corner stone of the Monumental Church was laid, the lot having been purchased by the city for $5,000.
From Historic Shrines of America Being the Story of One Hundred and Twenty Historic Buildings and the Pioneers Who Made Them Notable by Faris, John T. (John Thomson)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
