monster

mon-ster · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An imaginary creature that is typically large, ugly, and frightening.

  2. 2.

    A person of inhumanity, cruelty, or wickedness.

  3. 3.

    Something extremely large or powerful.

  4. 4.

    (informal, attributive) Extremely large or successful.

Forms

plural: monsters

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    monster truck — an oversized vehicle with huge wheels
  • •
    cookie monster — a voracious eater (from the Sesame Street character)
  • •
    green-eyed monster — jealousy
  • •
    Frankenstein's monster — something that destroys its creator

Related words

Antonyms: angel, saint
See also: beast, creature, demon, monstrous
Synonyms: beast, creature, fiend, ogre

Etymology

From Old French monstre, from Latin monstrum ("portent, abnormal thing, monster"), from monere ("to warn, remind"). Originally referred to divine omens or portents.