goliath

go-li-ath · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (lowercase) A person or organization of enormous size, power, or influence.

  2. 2.

    Something of immense size or scope.

Forms

plural: goliaths

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    David and Goliath — A contest between a small underdog and a powerful opponent
  • •
    goliath crane — A very large type of crane used in shipbuilding

Related words

Antonyms: David, dwarf, underdog
See also: behemoth, colossus, giant, titan
Synonyms: behemoth, colossus, giant, titan

Etymology

From Hebrew Golyath, the name of the giant Philistine warrior slain by the young David in the Bible (1 Samuel 17). The common noun use emerged from this story of an underdog defeating a powerful opponent.