Word of the Day

: May 16, 2021

magnum opus

noun MAG-num-OH-pus

What It Means

: a great work; especially : the greatest achievement of an artist or writer

magnum opus in Context

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote a number of popular novels and stories during his lifetime, but his magnum opus is The Great Gatsby, the story of an eccentric millionaire.

"Natalie Johns's documentary 'Max Richter's Sleep' (2019) showcases the magnum opus of the title, an eight-and-a-half hour, 204 movement Neo-Classical piece performed by soprano, synthesizers, and string ensemble. It is performed for supine audiences who are encouraged to doze off during the proceedings." — Peter Keough, The Boston Globe, 24 Mar. 2021

Did You Know?

You may recognize magnum (meaning "great") as a Latin word that shows up in altered forms in several English words, and perhaps you can also come up with a few words that are related to opus ("work"). Magnitude, magnanimous, opulent, and operate are some obvious relations of the two. Magnum opus, which entered English in the 18th century, retains the original Latin spelling and the literal meaning "great work." Although the term most often refers to literary, musical, or artistic productions, it has been used to describe many kinds of great works, including games, construction projects, and even surgical techniques.