Phenomenal

/fɪˈnɒmɪnəl/

adjectivemediumCommonArts

Definitions

1

Remarkable or extraordinary, especially in a positive way; very impressive.

/fɪˈnɒmɪnəl/

adjectivepositivemedium
Arts

Extraordinary or remarkable; very impressive.

The singer's voice was phenomenal.

💡 Simply: Imagine something so awesome and amazing it makes you go 'wow!' like a superhero's amazing power or a fantastic performance. That's phenomenal!

👶 For kids: Something phenomenal is super great and amazing!

More Examples

2

The company's growth has been phenomenal over the past year.

3

The sunset over the ocean was a phenomenal sight.

How It's Used

Sports

"The athlete's performance was phenomenal."

Arts and Entertainment

"The concert received phenomenal reviews."

General

"The new technology shows phenomenal progress."

From Greek *phainomenon* (thing that appears) + -al. The word's meaning has evolved from relating to observable facts or events to implying something extraordinary.

Initially related to observable facts, it gained popularity in the 19th century to describe remarkable achievements or qualities.

Memory tip

Think of a phenomenon that is so impressive it's beyond the ordinary.

Word Origin

Root: phainomenon

phenominalphenomonal

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written