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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Future plans call for numerous floors, including one containing a gym and bathroom facilities. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 21 Nov. 2024 The book comprises eight chapters that are crammed with numerous examples and case studies. Grrlscientist, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024 As sourcing executives are navigating and preparing for numerous uncertainties—with impending tariffs at the top of the watch list—cotton offers constancy in an evolving environment, according to a Cotton Incorporated executive. Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 21 Nov. 2024 The meal is $129.95 and includes a 10- to 12-pound turkey or half-ham, and numerous sides including mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls and an 8-inch cherry, pumpkin or apple pie. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for numerous 

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 4 Dec. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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