épico

Épico is an adjective used in several Romance languages to describe works, styles, or events that have the scope, grandeur, or heroic qualities associated with epic narratives. The masculine form is épico, and the feminine form is épica; in French the equivalent is épique.

Etymology and scope. The term derives from Latin epicus, which in turn comes from Greek epikos, meaning related to epic poetry, itself from epos, meaning a story or poem. Over time, épico broadened beyond strict epic poetry to convey grand, monumental, or mythic characteristics in various cultural domains.

Literature and criticism. In literary contexts, épico often designates epic poetry or works modeled on the epic tradition: long narratives, elevated language, a focus on heroic deeds, and often a sense of national or historical significance. Classical examples include La Ilíada and La Eneida, which are typically described as épicos in relevant traditions.

Modern usage. In contemporary language, épico describes things that feel grand or awe-inspiring, even outside poetry or classical literature. This can apply to films, videos, music, or real-world events, as in “una película épica” or “un momento épico.” The term can function as a general intensifier for impressive scale or impact.

Cognates and variants. The concept exists in related languages with cognates such as épique in French and épico/épica in Portuguese and Spanish. In English, the corresponding term is epic.

Overall, épico signals scale, heroism, or mythic breadth, whether in ancient verse or modern media, and is commonly used to praise grandeur or extraordinary achievement.