fabulous
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈæbjʊləs/
US
- /ˈfæbjələs/
Description
- Wonderful
- Amazing
- Excellent
"Fabulous" is not just another way to say "good." It is strong, happy praise. The word once meant "related to fables or stories," but over time it came to describe something so wonderful that it almost feels unreal, like something from a fairy tale. You might use it for a great show, a beautiful outfit, a fun party, or a really tasty meal. It often has a playful, excited tone and can sound a little exaggerated in a fun way.
The word "fabulous" expresses much stronger approval than simple words like "good" or "great." Its roots lie in the world of fables, and it originally meant something connected with stories or legends. Over time, its meaning changed, and now it usually describes something that is exceptionally wonderful, impressive, and sometimes a little glamorous or larger than life.
When people use it today, they usually mean that something stands out in a big, exciting way. A concert can be fabulous, a vacation can be fabulous, and a person's sense of style can be fabulous. The word suggests more than simple quality; it adds a feeling of delight, admiration, and a touch of drama. Sometimes it even hints that something feels almost too good to be true.
It is often used for performances, clothes, parties, food, holidays, or anything that feels exciting and impressive. It can describe people too, especially when you want to praise their style, energy, or charm. In some contexts, people also use it playfully or ironically, exaggerating on purpose. For example, someone might joke, "This traffic is just fabulous," when they clearly mean the opposite.
Although it is often linked with glamour and luxury, it is not limited to fancy things. You can talk about a fabulous friend, a fabulous idea, or a fabulous day. In all of these cases, the word adds energy and warmth. It tells the listener that something is not merely nice, but truly delightful and memorable.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
She wore a fabulous red dress to the wedding.
- 2
Appearance
That color looks fabulous on you.
Pattern
look fabulous on + person
make that person look very good
- 3
Travel experience
We had a fabulous time in Lisbon.
- 4
Hospitality
The hotel serves a fabulous breakfast.
- 5
Plans
That sounds fabulous, but I already have plans for Saturday.
Phrase
sounds fabulous
seems very attractive or enjoyable
- 6
Event work
He did a fabulous job organizing the event.
- 7
Childcare
Mia is fabulous with children.
Pattern
be fabulous with + person/group
be very good with them
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- fabulousadjective