colossi

colossi

Two ancient colossi stand guard on either side of the harbor entrance.

Definition

Noun (plural of colossus): 1. Statues of enormous size: "colossi" refers to extremely large statues, especially those of a monumental or ancient nature. - The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues in Egypt. (They are colossal figures from antiquity.) 2. Beings or things of immense size or power: Used metaphorically to describe any person, organization, or object that is extraordinarily large, influential, or impressive. - The company became one of the colossi of the tech industry. (It grew into a giant in its field.)

Usage Examples
  • (They created huge statues for religious purposes.)
  • (Only a few giant corporations hold immense power.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Colossi of the ancient world": A specific term for the seven wonders or other monumental statues.

    • The Colossus of Rhodes was one of the most famous colossi of antiquity. (It was a legendary giant statue.)
  • "Colossi of industry": Used to describe dominant corporations or powerful individuals in a field.

    • The oil colossi have significant influence over global economies. (These giant companies wield great power.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Colossus (n, singular): a giant statue or a person/thing of great size or importance.

    • The statue was a colossus of bronze. (It was a single enormous figure.)
  • Colossal (adj): extremely large; gigantic.

    • The project required a colossal amount of effort. (It was enormous in scale.)
Synonyms
  • Giants: beings or things of extraordinary size.
  • Titans: figures of immense power or size, often from mythology.
  • Monoliths: large, single blocks of stone, or metaphorically, huge, unchanging entities.
Related Idioms
  • "A colossus with feet of clay": A person or thing that appears powerful but has a hidden weakness.

    • The empire was a colossus with feet of clay, vulnerable to collapse. (It seemed mighty but was fragile.)
  • "Stride like a colossus": To move or act with overwhelming power or presence.

    • He strode through the room like a colossus, commanding attention. (He moved with immense confidence and authority.)