miracle

American  

[mir-uh-kuhl] / ˈmɪr ə kəl /

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.

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miracle British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of miracle

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

Example Sentences

At the lowest point, the Bears were down to a 4% chance of pulling off a miracle.

From The Wall Street Journal

One teacher described the return to classrooms and exams as "a miracle."

From Science Daily

“We must balance making sure we keep the Silicon Valley miracle and dynamism with ensuring that the working class benefit from the prosperity with healthcare, education, and childcare,” Khanna told me in a recent statement.

From The Wall Street Journal

The question now will be whether he can deliver another miracle—this time without the ball in his hands.

From The Wall Street Journal

I’m a frequent year-round flier between New York and Florida and have noticed what we call “healing miracle” flights.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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