Definition of colossalnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word colossal distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of colossal are enormous, gigantic, huge, immense, mammoth, and vast. While all these words mean "exceedingly large," colossal applies especially to a human creation of stupendous or incredible dimensions.

a colossal statue of Lincoln

How are the words enormous and immense related as synonyms of colossal?

Enormous and immense both suggest an exceeding of all ordinary bounds in size or amount or degree, but enormous often adds an implication of abnormality or monstrousness.

an enormous expense
an immense shopping mall

When could gigantic be used to replace colossal?

In some situations, the words gigantic and colossal are roughly equivalent. However, gigantic stresses the contrast with the size of others of the same kind.

a gigantic sports stadium

When can huge be used instead of colossal?

Although the words huge and colossal have much in common, huge commonly suggests an immensity of bulk or amount.

incurred a huge debt

When would mammoth be a good substitute for colossal?

While in some cases nearly identical to colossal, mammoth suggests both hugeness and ponderousness of bulk.

a mammoth boulder

When is vast a more appropriate choice than colossal?

The words vast and colossal can be used in similar contexts, but vast usually suggests immensity of extent.

the vast Russian steppes

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of colossal Set on a colossal ceramic plate crafted by a local architect, and supported internally with steel tubes, this event set a Guinness World Record, solidifying the country’s enthusiasm for the dip. Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 June 2026 Neolithic peoples, with limited technology, would have had to travel impressive distances to move such a colossal megalith over 435 miles, as researchers determined that the stone originated from the Orcadian Basin in northeastern Scotland. Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 6 June 2026 And SpaceX isn't the only colossal market debut investors are now bracing for. CBS News, 4 June 2026 Through the glass windows of the colossal open kitchen, guests can watch Singita’s sous chefs in action—they’re also welcome to barge right in and watch (and help in) the preparation. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for colossal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for colossal
Adjective
  • While running your air conditioner is likely a must, there are actually other ways to keep your home cooler that don't involve blasting your AC or a gigantic electric bill.
    Molly Burford, Southern Living, 22 June 2026
  • Those include partnering to develop digital workflows and their joint-ownership in the Terafab facility that plans to produce a gigantic one terawatt a year in compute hardware.
    Shawn Tully, Fortune, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • That would deal a huge blow to a state that relies on its top 1% of earners for nearly half its personal income tax revenue.
    Sophie Austin, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
  • So my whole upbringing was hiding and carrying this huge weight and secret.
    Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • The assessment, which was based on disruptions, incidents, and violent extremist propaganda, says the potentially enormous crowds make the parade a high priority for lone wolf attackers, the official said.
    Mark Morales, CNN Money, 18 June 2026
  • The mega monsoons, vast deserts, volcanic eruptions, and enormous terrestrial animals and marine life of the turbulent Permian Period feature prominently, as the Earth reaches the brink of ecological collapse.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • The University of Kansas marching band played the Algerian national anthem and Lawrence artist Stan Herd created a giant flag of the North African nation, made out of organic materials, to display on the school grounds.
    Yi-Jin Yu, ABC News, 17 June 2026
  • Texas restaurants are a big winner from the FIFA World Cup, as visitors fill social media with dozens of photos of giant barbecue platters, tall frozen margaritas and anything from Buc-ees.
    Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues.
    R.J. Rico, Fortune, 20 June 2026
  • The vast indoor mall had a six-decade run as a top retail destination and gathering place for the Southwest Side’s West Lawn community, but a growing number of empty stores and unsafe conditions led city officials to file a lawsuit and force its closure.
    Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security awarded a contract to a company that makes a drone with massive nets to ensnare other drones.
    Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • This $200,000 bad check appears to be just the tip of a massive financial iceberg.
    Alejandro Avila, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • The State of Colorado is mourning this tremendous loss alongside everyone who was impacted by Lynn.
    Jesse Sarles, CBS News, 20 June 2026
  • Late night parties followed and alcohol flowed, and my memory is of talent of all ages lovingly looking up at the master with tremendous gratitude.
    Warren Littlefield, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Markley data center in Lowell The Markley data center is a mammoth building.
    David Wade, CBS News, 18 June 2026
  • Other mammoth rehab projects in the works nearby are expected to help fill vacant offices and revive aging skyscrapers with new apartments and hotel rooms.
    Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Colossal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/colossal. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on colossal

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster