- Main Entry:
- 1grand
- Pronunciation:
-
\ˈgrand\
- Function:
- adjective
- Etymology:
- Anglo-French grant, grand, large, great, grand, from Latin grandis
- Date:
- 1548
1 a: having more importance than others : foremost b: having higher rank than others bearing the same general designation <the grand champion>2 a: inclusive, comprehensive <the grand total of all money paid out> b: definitive, incontrovertible <grand example>3: chief, principal4: large and striking in size, scope, extent, or conception <grand design>5 a: lavish, sumptuous <a grand celebration> b: marked by a regal form and dignity c: fine or imposing in appearance or impression d: lofty, sublime <writing in the grand style>6 a: pretending to social superiority : supercilious b: intended to impress <a person of grand gestures>7: very good : wonderful <a grand time>
—
grand·ly \ˈgran-(d)lē\ adverb —
grand·ness \ˈgran(d)-nəs\ noun synonyms grand,
magnificent,
imposing,
stately,
majestic,
grandiose mean large and impressive.
grand adds to greatness of size the implications of handsomeness and dignity
<a grand staircase>.
magnificent implies an impressive largeness proportionate to scale without sacrifice of dignity or good taste
<magnificent paintings>.
imposing implies great size and dignity but especially stresses impressiveness
<an imposing edifice>.
stately may suggest poised dignity, erectness of bearing, handsomeness of proportions, ceremonious deliberation of movement
<the stately procession>.
majestic combines the implications of
imposing and
stately and usually adds a suggestion of solemn grandeur
<a majestic waterfall>.
grandiose implies a size or scope exceeding ordinary experience
<grandiose hydroelectric projects> but is most commonly applied derogatorily to inflated pretension or absurd exaggeration
<grandiose schemes>.
