miracle

[mir-uh-kuhl]

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.

miracle

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

C12: from Latin mīrāculum, from mīrārī to wonder at

Example Sentences

“One of the problems is that capital-M ‘miracles’ have a tendency to be quite bombastic” in biblical entertainment, says Leshem, who directed most episodes of “The Saints.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Because of these qualities, graphene is considered a "miracle material" and is already being explored for flexible electronic screens, highly sensitive sensors, advanced batteries, and next-generation solar cells.

Read more on Science Daily

Some days more than others, Wilhite feels the miracle of survival, of prayer, of modern medicine.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Those claims are, of course, unproven, and past experience suggests that there is no miracle technological solution to complex security threats.

Read more on Salon

A couple visiting San Diego was treated to a Thanksgiving miracle when San Diego lifeguards located and rescued their missing dog from the ocean Sunday.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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