noun / adjective
epic
EP-ik/ˈɛpɪk/
A long narrative of grand events or heroic deeds.
The epic follows a warrior through years of war and wandering.
Etymology
Originally describing heroic poetry, “epic” took on the grandeur associated with its larger-than-life characters and actions. That literary association supplies the modern sense of something impressively large or heroic.
In context
Epic films are characterized by their vast canvas, encompassing large casts, sweeping landscapes, and intricate plots.
More examples
- We read two ancient epics in our literature class.
- Her epic poem tells of a queen who saves her people.
- The novel is a sprawling epic about three generations of a family.
Forms
epic · epics