Greats

Greats is a term used to describe individuals who are widely regarded as among the most accomplished, influential, or memorable in a given field or era. It is informal and evaluative, not a formal title, and it functions as a shorthand for a collective of notable figures. Phrases such as the greats of science, the greats of literature, or the greats of sport are common in journalism, criticism, and biographical writing, and they serve to signal exceptional achievement and enduring impact.

Etymology and usage: The word great comes from Old English and has long carried connotations of significance and power. In modern usage, adding the plural -s forms a loosely defined group rather than identifying specific individuals. The selection of who counts as one of the greats is inherently subjective and culturally contingent, varying across disciplines, regions, and historical periods.

Examples and scope: In science, the greats might include figures who shaped understanding or methodology; in the arts, those whose work defined or transformed genres. Lists of the greats are often constructed to illustrate a field’s development or to provoke discussion about influence and legacy. Because greatness is a judgment about impact, not a universal standard, different communities may highlight different names.

Criticism and considerations: Some observers caution that focusing on the greats can reinforce narrow canons, overlook marginalized contributors, or obscure ongoing change. Others use the term more loosely as a celebratory label for notable achievements.

In contemporary writing, greats remains a convenient, nontechnical shorthand for exceptional figures, while alternatives such as significant figures or renowned contributors are used to avoid implying definitive ranking.