Meaning & Definition of word "Mammoth"
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Mammoth
/ˈmæməθ/
noun:
- 1. A large, extinct elephant-like mammal of the genus Mammuthus, similar to modern elephants but with long, curved tusks and a shaggy coat, that lived during the Ice Ages.
- Example: Fossils of the mammoth have been found in Siberia, frozen in permafrost for thousands of years.
- 2. Something of great size or importance.
- Example: The construction of the new stadium was a mammoth undertaking, requiring years of planning and resources.
adjective:
- 1. Having great mass and size; gigantic.
- Example: The team faced a mammoth challenge in trying to turn their season around after a rough start.
- 2. Imposing; colossal.
- Example: She made a mammoth effort to complete the project ahead of the deadline.
Etymology
From the Russian 'mamont', itself possibly from the Mansi language.
Common Phrases and Expressions
mammoth task:
A very large and difficult job or task.
mammoth proportions:
Something that is exceedingly large.
mammoth effort:
A significant, extensive attempt at accomplishing something.
Related Words
elephant:
A large herbivorous mammal known for its trunk.
paleo:
Relating to ancient history, especially prehistoric times.
megafauna:
Large or giant animals, typically in the Ice Age.
Slang Meanings of mammoth
Meaning: Something impressively large or big.
Example Sentence: That new movie was a mammoth hit at the box office.
Meaning: A challenge that is much bigger than expected.
Example Sentence: Taking on that project became a mammoth headache!