many a

Idioms

Numerous ones, as in Many a little boy has wanted to become a fireman. This adjective is always used with a singular noun, a usage dating from about 1200. Also see many is the.

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.

A day job is still, for many, a necessity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The veteran has weathered many a political storm, including a scandal over his use of party funds to buy expensive suits.

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

In the ride’s queue, for instance, guests in line will walk past a wall that features a timeline of many a Lego space set.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

"I've said for many a year now that it needs a full-time warden there and appropriate signage - that's a massive thing that's missing."

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2026

I done studied about it many a time.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023