rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: -osus
Latin

-osus

full of, having; characterized by

Forms

  • -osus
  • -ous — English ending developed through French.
  • -ose — A learned English form based on the Latin suffix.

Origin

Latin -osus, a suffix attached to nouns; its deeper formation is uncertain.

Note

Usually marks a characteristic, without requiring a literal abundance of anything.

24 / 114
adjective

fabulous

FAB-yuh-lus/ˈfæbjələs/

Exceptionally impressive or wonderful.

The flower arrangement looks fabulous to the delighted viewer.

A young adult woman admires an exceptionally beautiful flower arrangement, smiling with delighted surprise at its impressive cascading blooms.
Etymology
fabulLatinstory, tale
+ousLatinfull of, having; characterized by

From its connection with stories and myths, fabulous first meant legendary or mythical, then incredible. That sense developed into amazing or marvelous, giving the modern expression of enthusiastic praise.

In context

The New York Times3:41
you get a good overview of the bay you get to see alcatra you can have a glass of wine there's Wi-Fi available it's a fabulous way to travel
What to Do in San Francisco | 36 Hours Travel Videos | The New York Times

More examples

  • She had a fabulous evening.
  • The costume was fabulous.
  • They admired the fabulous view.

Forms

fabulous

fabulously adverb — In an exceptionally impressive way.

Similar words

wonderful
Extremely pleasing or impressive.
fantastic
Another emphatic compliment.