Monster

/ˈmɒnstər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An imaginary or mythical creature that is typically large, frightening, or grotesque.
The children were terrified by the monster under the bed.
A person or thing of unnatural or extreme ugliness, deformity, wickedness, or cruelty.
The villain in the story was portrayed as a monster, committing acts of cruelty without remorse.
A person or thing that is extraordinarily or aggressively powerful.
The athlete was a monster on the field, dominating every game.
verb
To treat someone or something as a monster; to exaggerate flaws or traits.
The media tended to monster her actions, turning a small mistake into a scandal.

Etymology

From Latin 'monstrum', meaning 'portent, monster' and from the verb 'monere', meaning 'to warn' or 'to show'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

monster under the bed
A childhood fear of imaginary creatures that one believes might be hiding.
monster of a task
A particularly large or difficult job that feels overwhelming.
monster truck
A large vehicle with oversized tires, often used in shows for stunts.

Related Words

beast
An animal, especially a large or dangerous one.
ogre
A man-eating giant or monster in fairy tales.
goblin
A small, mischievous creature from folklore.

Slang Meanings

A person who is very good at something, often used in sports or gaming.
That player is a monster on the court!
Something that is impressively large or powerful.
That truck is a monster, it's enormous!