awesome

awe-some · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    (Informal) Extremely impressive, excellent, or enjoyable.

  2. 2.

    (Formal, original meaning) Inspiring awe; causing feelings of fear, wonder, or reverence.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    totally awesome — Extremely good or impressive (informal).
  • •
    that's awesome — Expression of approval or enthusiasm.
  • •
    awesome sauce — (Slang) Expression of enthusiastic approval.

Related words

Antonyms: awful, disappointing, mediocre, terrible
See also: amazing, awe, excellent, fantastic, terrific
Synonyms: amazing, fantastic, incredible, terrific, wonderful

Etymology

From English awe (fear, reverence) + -some (suffix meaning "characterized by"). Originally meant "inspiring awe" (16th century), but shifted in the late 20th century (especially American English) to mean "excellent, amazing."