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Synonyms

awesome

American  
[aw-suhm] / ˈɔ səm /

adjective

  1. causing or inducing awe; inspiring an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, or fear.

    an awesome sight.

  2. exhibiting or marked by awe; showing reverence, admiration, or fear.

  3. Slang. very impressive.

    That new white convertible is totally awesome.


awesome British  
/ ˈɔːsəm /

adjective

  1. inspiring or displaying awe

  2. slang excellent or outstanding

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Commonly Confused

See awful.

Other Word Forms

  • awesomely adverb
  • awesomeness noun

Etymology

Origin of awesome

First recorded in 1590–1600; awe + -some 1

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.

The rationale for vesting awesome powers in a politically insulated central bank is that sage technocrats will make wise decisions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

In an arena full of stars in the stands and on the court it was the voice of a 6-year-old that reminded us how awesome it is to be a Lakers fan for life!

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

In any case, a person with the psychology of a malignant adolescent is unlikely to think very far past the conviction that wielding awesome powers of destruction is cool.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

Even its piercing eyes are crafted from vehicle bearings, completing a sculpture that is both intricate and awesome.

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

"But you’re an awesome dancer! We need you in this scene."

From "The Cinderella Ballet Mystery: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #4" by Carolyn Keene