Definition of immensenext
1
2

Synonym Chooser

How is the word immense distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of immense are colossal, enormous, gigantic, huge, mammoth, and vast. While all these words mean "exceedingly large," 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 might colossal be a better fit than immense?

Although the words colossal and immense have much in common, colossal applies especially to a human creation of stupendous or incredible dimensions.

a colossal statue of Lincoln

When can gigantic be used instead of immense?

While in some cases nearly identical to immense, gigantic stresses the contrast with the size of others of the same kind.

a gigantic sports stadium

When is huge a more appropriate choice than immense?

While the synonyms huge and immense are close in meaning, huge commonly suggests an immensity of bulk or amount.

incurred a huge debt

Where would mammoth be a reasonable alternative to immense?

The words mammoth and immense can be used in similar contexts, but mammoth suggests both hugeness and ponderousness of bulk.

a mammoth boulder

When could vast be used to replace immense?

The words vast and immense are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 immense As a magnetar spins on its axis at nearly the speed of light, its immense magnetic field contorts, coils and twists to pump out powerful radiation. Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 11 Mar. 2026 This seems like an immense lift, but was there one specific day or location that stands out as the most difficult? Outside Online, 11 Mar. 2026 In fact, the political pressure on Congress to put its foot down could become so immense that lawmakers may have to do something – like their job. Charlie Hunt, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2026 The Bengals have repeatedly expressed their immense respect for Crosby over the years, and Cincinnati kept tabs on his status in recent weeks. Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for immense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for immense
Adjective
  • And so, not far from Tau Ceti, an enormous alien spacecraft looms into view.
    Justin Chang, New Yorker, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Indeed, the birth of this enormous sweeping bar may have initially concentrated gas to help trigger star formation and then propel stars outward, the researchers suggested.
    Charles Q. Choi, Space.com, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • With various pockets for groups to catch up and a secret bookcase that leads to a private room, Darby Winery is a great option for both excellent wines and unique design.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Mar. 2026
  • The settings feature 12 different temperatures backed by infared technology to fit any styling mood (the lower temperatures are great for creating waves without completely frying off your hair).
    Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Finally, and most importantly, though the scope of the food production here is naturally vast, it’s all executed extremely thoughtfully and personally.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2026
  • These are settlements which are built even in violation of Israeli planning regulations, but, again, the vast majority of them are fully supported by the government.
    Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Their egg dishes are excellent, the burger is top-notch and the roasted chicken, which is cooked over an open fire in the kitchen, is superb.
    Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026
  • The bralette-style cups on this dual-strap tankini top are an excellent fit for smaller chests, and the criss-crossing back is a fun touch.
    Annie Blackman, InStyle, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The horn sounded as the ball approached the hoop, marking the second huge shot from Bradley on an otherwise quiet night for the senior guard.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 14 Mar. 2026
  • Geopolitics aside, this news is a huge deal for the BCIs in general.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Coast Guard is a huge piece of this puzzle, and to be able to see the Coast Guard come to realization is wonderful.
    John Ramos, CBS News, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Something wonderful could drop into your lap in mid-June.
    Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Canori, in his statement, added that his team has taken tremendous care working with Newport Beach and world-class architects to ensure the project complements and aligns with the vision and plan for Newport Center.
    Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 14 Mar. 2026
  • And he's got a tremendous card.
    Paulina Dedaj, FOXNews.com, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Chiefs lost a terrific player but loaded up on draft capital by trading star corner Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams.
    Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2026
  • And that’s coming off Gannon’s terrific work for NBC at the Winter Olympics.
    Mike Lupica, New York Daily News, 14 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Immense.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/immense. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on immense

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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