numerous

adjective

nu·​mer·​ous ˈnü-mə-rəs How to pronounce numerous (audio)
ˈnüm-rə-;
ˈnyü-mə-,
ˈnyüm-rə-
: consisting of great numbers of units or individuals
born into a numerous family
also : many
received numerous complaints
The people I'd like to thank are too numerous to mention.
numerously adverb
numerousness noun

Examples of numerous in a Sentence

She decided to leave for numerous reasons. The birds are becoming more numerous in this area.
Recent Examples on the Web Giller was assigned to numerous parishes and schools in the archdiocese, the announcement said. Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 31 May 2024 Gordon played two seasons each for the Bruins and Lobos before a professional career that also included stints in the NBA’s G League and numerous leagues overseas. Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for numerous 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'numerous.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin numerōsus, from numerus number entry 2 + -ōsus -ous

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of numerous was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near numerous

Cite this Entry

“Numerous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/numerous. Accessed 3 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

numerous

adjective
nu·​mer·​ous ˈn(y)üm-(ə-)rəs How to pronounce numerous (audio)
: consisting of great numbers
numerous friends
numerously adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on numerous

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