Phenomenon — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Phenomenon
Phenomenon (noun)
- an observable fact or event, an item of experience or reality
- someone or something that is very popular or impressive especially because of an unusual quality or ability
- a rare or significant fact or event
Phenomenon (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
something extraordinary or surprising
"our jaws dropped when we saw this basketball phenomenon play for the first time"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Phenomenon
The most common words with a similar meaning to Phenomenon:
Word Forms of Phenomenon
Inflections: phenomena, phenomenons
Origin & Etymology of Phenomenon
Late Latin phaenomenon, from Greek phainomenon, from neuter of phainomenos, present participle of phainesthai to appear, middle voice of phainein to show fancy
First known use: 1583
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Phenomenon
- CEFR level: B2 English Vocabulary — Page 19
- Academic Word List: 570 Academic Word List — Page 10
- Topics: Science & Research
Words & Phrases Containing Phenomenon
Frequently Asked Questions about Phenomenon
What does "Phenomenon" mean?
"Phenomenon" means an observable fact or event, an item of experience or reality. As a noun, it is defined as: an observable fact or event, an item of experience or reality.
What is another word for "Phenomenon"?
Other words for "Phenomenon" include caution, flash, marvel, miracle, portent, prodigy, sensation and splendor. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Phenomenon" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Phenomenon"?
There are 20 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Phenomenon". Common alternatives include caution, flash, marvel, miracle, portent, prodigy, sensation, splendor and wonder.
How do you use "Phenomenon" in a sentence?
Examples of "Phenomenon" in a sentence: "our jaws dropped when we saw this basketball phenomenon play for the first time".
Is "Phenomenon" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Phenomenon" is a noun.
Is "Phenomenon" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a B2-level word, "Phenomenon" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+. It is on the Academic Word List, so it appears often in IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and university texts.
How do you pronounce "Phenomenon"?
"Phenomenon" is pronounced /fi-ˈnä-mə-ˌnän/ and divided into syllables as phe·nom·e·non.
What is the origin of the word "Phenomenon"?
"Phenomenon" comes from Late Latin phaenomenon, from Greek phainomenon, from neuter of phainomenos, present participle of phainesthai to appear, middle voice of phainein to show fancy. First known use: 1583.