Definition

Noun: 1. A massive, powerful, and unstoppable force or institution: Refers to something very large and powerful that destroys or seems to destroy everything in its path and cannot be stopped. 2. A crude idol of Krishna; an avatar of Vishnu: In Hinduism, a specific representation of the god Krishna or Vishnu. Historically, large statues of this deity were placed on heavy carts (raths) and pulled in processions.

Usage Examples

• The new tax law became a political juggernaut that crushed all opposition.
• The company grew from a small startup into a global juggernaut.
• Some fans follow the football team with a devotion akin to worshippers of a juggernaut.

Advanced Usage

• Juggernaut is often used metaphorically to describe overwhelming systems, trends, or organizations (e.g., the juggernaut of technology, the advertising juggernaut).
• The term carries a connotation of being impersonal, relentless, and potentially destructive in its advance.

Variants and Related Words

• Juggernaut is used as both a common noun and a proper noun (Juggernaut) when referring specifically to the Hindu deity.
• Juggernaut-like (adjective): Having the qualities of a juggernaut; massive and unstoppable.
  • The juggernaut-like advance of the army caused widespread panic.

Synonyms

• Behemoth
• Colossus
• Titan
• Leviathan
• Steamroller (metaphorical)

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Like a juggernaut: Moving with irresistible, crushing force.
  • The protest movement gained momentum and moved forward like a juggernaut.
• Juggernaut of progress: A phrase criticizing the relentless, often destructive, nature of technological or social change.
  • They worried their village would be sacrificed to the juggernaut of progress.

Noun

1. a crude idol of Krishna
2. an avatar of Vishnu
3. a massive inexorable force that seems to crush everything in its way