Mammoth

/ˈmæməθ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

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.

Fossils of the mammoth have been found in Siberia, frozen in permafrost for thousands of years.

Something of great size or importance.

The construction of the new stadium was a mammoth undertaking, requiring years of planning and resources.

adjective

Having great mass and size; gigantic.

The team faced a mammoth challenge in trying to turn their season around after a rough start.

Imposing; colossal.

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

Something impressively large or big.

That new movie was a mammoth hit at the box office.

A challenge that is much bigger than expected.

Taking on that project became a mammoth headache!