marvelous
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈɑːvələs/
US
- /ˈmɑrvələs/
Description
- wonderful
- amazing
- excellent
- full of wonder
- very impressive
To describe something as marvelous is to say it is extremely good and full of wonder. It is more than just "good" - it feels special, impressive, and joyful. Think of a sunset coloring the whole sky, or a performance so good that everyone stays quiet for a moment after it ends.
The word comes from an old French word meaning "full of wonder." You might use it for a child's imagination, a beautiful place, a kind person, or a piece of work done very well. It often fits things that make you smile, stop, or admire them for a moment. A truly marvelous experience is one you remember long after it is over.
The word marvelous describes something extremely wonderful, impressive, or full of wonder. It is stronger than simply saying something is "good" or "nice." When you call something marvelous, you mean it stands out and gives people a feeling of delight, surprise, or admiration. For example, you might talk about a marvelous show, a marvelous meal, a marvelous idea, or a marvelous day by the sea.
It is often used for beautiful experiences and things that seem almost magical in how good they are. A traveler might speak of a marvelous view from a mountain, and a listener might call a song marvelous because it moves them deeply. The word also works for stories, performances, weather, food, or moments that feel unusually special.
But marvelous is not only for beauty. It can also praise skill, quality, or success. You can describe a marvelous teacher, a marvelous piece of engineering, or a marvelous solution to a hard problem. In these cases, the word shows strong approval and real admiration.
It is close in meaning to words like "wonderful" and "amazing," though it can sound a little more expressive or slightly more formal in some contexts. People use it when something feels memorable, delightful, and worth praising warmly. So if an experience, person, place, or piece of work fills you with real wonder, marvelous is a natural word to choose.
Examples
- 1
Food praise
The soup was marvelous, especially with the fresh bread.
- 2
Beach outing
We had a marvelous time at the beach.
- 3
Party planning
She did a marvelous job organizing the party.
- 4
Reunion
It was marvelous to see everyone together again.
- 5
Teaching skill
He is marvelous at explaining difficult ideas.
Pattern
marvelous at + activity
very good at doing it
- 6
Seasonal clothing
This light jacket is marvelous for spring weather.
Pattern
marvelous for + situation
very useful or pleasant in that situation
- 7
Happy reaction
"You got the job? How marvelous!"
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- marvelousadjective