great

Great is an adjective used to describe something large in size, extent, importance, or quality, or something regarded as remarkable. It is widely applicable, ranging from physical dimensions to achievements and experiences. In everyday speech, great often conveys a positive assessment rather than a precise measurement.

Originating from Old English grēat, the word reflects notions of size and strength. Its meaning broadened over centuries to include exceptional quality or significance. Related terms exist in many Germanic languages, such as German groß and Dutch groot, reflecting a common ancestral concept of largeness.

Usage varies with context. For physical size, great can imply scale (a great wall) or abundance (a great amount of time). For quality or impact, it denotes excellence or importance (a great idea, a great achievement). In informal speech, it also serves as a general intensifier: that’s great.

The Great is a traditional epithet applied to some rulers who are celebrated for extensive influence or transformative projects, such as Alexander the Great, Catherine the Great, and Peter the Great. The title signals historical prominence rather than a literal measure of greatness.

Comparative and superlative forms are greater and greatest. Great appears in numerous idioms and fixed expressions and as part of proper nouns and place names, such as Great Britain, Great Lakes, and the Great War, illustrating its broad semantic range.