magnum

[mag-nuhm]

noun

1. a large wine bottle having a capacity of two ordinary bottles or 1.5 liters (1.6 quarts).

2. a magnum cartridge or firearm.

adjective

1. (of a cartridge) equipped with a larger charge than other cartridges of the same size.

2. (of a firearm) using such a cartridge.

3. Informal.,  unusually great in power or size.

   a magnum spotlight; a magnum dosage.

magnum

/ ˈmæɡnəm /

noun

1. a wine bottle holding the equivalent of two normal bottles (approximately 52 fluid ounces)

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnum¹

1780–90; < Latin, neuter of magnus large; in reference to firearms, originally used as a trademark by the Smith and Wesson Co.

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnum¹

C18: from Latin: a big thing, from magnus large

Example Sentences

When Anni Albers published her theoretical magnum opus “On Weaving” in 1965, she was already lamenting the loss of our tactile sensibilities, which have undeniably worsened in the digital era.

From Los Angeles Times

For a franchise where Nielsen once said, “Blowing away a fleeing suspect with my .44 magnum used to be everything to me,” the updated punchline fits snugly with what came before.

From Salon

In 1966, Wilson led The Beach Boys in the production of "Pet Sounds," the magnum opus that elevated the group’s stature for all time.

From Salon

It’s a magnum opus from the culinary icon behind Kogi, “L.A. Son,” and “The Chef Show” — a book built on balance and compassion.

From Salon

His magnum opus was Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” widely agreed upon as the bestselling album of all time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bag 
• bottle 
• bowl 
• box 
• bucket 
• can 
• canister 
• capsule 
• carton 
• crate 
• dish 
• jar 
• jug 
• kettle 
• package 
• packet 
• pail 
• pot 
• pouch 
• sack