adjective
terrific
Very great in amount or force.
The engine makes a terrific roar as it starts.
Etymology
The Latin adjective means causing terror. Its intensity broadened into great size or force, even when literal fear is absent.
More examples
- The storm struck the coast with terrific force.
- They worked at a terrific pace to meet the deadline.
- The fall gave him a terrific fright.
Forms
terrific
Similar words
- enormous
- Emphasizes size or amount rather than force.
- tremendous
- Similarly strong magnitude, often with excitement or amazement.