gazillion
Definition
- Noun:
- A very large, indefinite, and exaggerated number: An informal and hyperbolic term used to emphasize an extremely large, uncountable quantity. It is not a precise numerical value.
Usage
As a subject or object: Used to hyperbolically describe a vast, unspecified number of things.
- I've told you a gazillion times to clean your room.
- There were a gazillion stars visible in the desert sky.
With "of": Almost always followed by "of" when modifying a plural noun.
- The website gets a gazillion of hits every day.
- She has a gazillion of ideas for the new project.
Advanced Usage
- Used for hyperbolic effect: Its primary function is exaggeration for humor, emphasis, or frustration. It is common in casual speech and writing.
- This computer has a gazillion different settings; I can't figure it out!
- I have a gazillion things to do before the deadline.
Variants and Related Words
- Zillion (n): Another informal term for a very large, indefinite number. It is synonymous with "gazillion."
- I've seen that movie a zillion times.
- Jillion (n): Yet another informal synonym for an immense, unspecified number.
- It feels like I've waited a jillion years for this.
- Umpteen (adj., informal): Used to refer to a large, indefinite number of times or instances.
- I've asked you umpteen times already.
Synonyms
- Myriad: A vast number (more formal than "gazillion").
- Countless: Too many to be counted.
- Innumerable: Too many to be numbered.
- A huge number: A simple, non-hyperbolic alternative.
Related Phrases
- Tons of / Loads of (informal): Phrases indicating a very large amount or number.
- I have tons of work to do.
- More than you can shake a stick at (idiom, informal): An idiom meaning a very large number.
- The festival had food vendors more than you can shake a stick at.
Noun
-
a very large indefinite number (usually hyperbole)
-
there were millions of flies
-
