miraculous
/mɪˈrækjələs/
adjective
Origin
Latin
miraculum — a marvel or wonder
Overview
Meaning Now
- occurring through divine or supernatural intervention; extraordinary.
- extremely surprising or impressive; highly improbable.
Literal older meaning
full of miracles
Language path
Latin → Middle English → English
Earliest form
miraculous
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The term is deeply rooted in theological discourse, used for centuries to describe events perceived as direct evidence of God's presence or power.
Evolution
- Latin
miraculosus
“full of wonders”
Derived from 'miraculum' (marvel/wonder).
- Middle English
miraculous
“wonderful or marvelous”
Entered English via Old French 'miraculeux'.
- Modern English
miraculous
“supernatural or extremely unlikely”
Broadened sense to include non-religious instances of extreme luck or improbability.
Connections
Word parts
miracul
root
wonder/marvel
-ous
suffix
possessing the qualities of
Related across languages
French
miraculeux
miraculous
Spanish
milagroso
miraculous
Italian
miracoloso
miraculous
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Related to miraculous
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.