great
UK[ɡreɪt]US[ɡreɪt]
adj
Of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above average
adj
Of ability, quality, or eminence considerably above average
adj
Used to indicate that someone or something particularly deserves a specified description
n
An important or distinguished person
Etymology
The word 'great' originates from the Proto-Germanic grōtaz, meaning 'coarse, thick'. This physical sense is preserved in related words like the Dutch 'groot' (big) and German 'groß' (large). In Old English, 'grēat' initially described physical size or thickness, such as coarse sand or a thick plank. Over centuries, its meaning expanded metaphorically from describing large physical dimensions to signifying importance, excellence, and high degree, reflecting a common semantic shift where terms for physical magnitude evolve to express abstract significance or intensity.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Germanic origin. The Old English root 'grēat' meant 'coarse, thick, massive'. Its functional role is as a base adjective.
Examples
The project required a great deal of time and resources.
She has the potential to become a great artist.
Alexander the Great conquered a vast empire.