Definition

Proper noun 1. The Seven Wonders of the World: A canonical list of seven remarkable and impressive man-made structures from classical antiquity, widely regarded as the most extraordinary monuments of the ancient world.

Usage

• The term is used as a proper noun to refer to the specific, historical list. It is often preceded by the definite article "the."
• It is used to discuss history, architecture, archaeology, and cultural achievements.
• In modern contexts, it is often used as a benchmark for comparing other impressive structures or natural phenomena (e.g., "the seven wonders of the modern world").

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Seven Wonders of the World were first compiled by ancient Greek historians.
  • Of the original Seven Wonders of the World, only the Great Pyramid of Giza remains largely intact.
  • Many people dream of visiting the sites of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Advanced Usage

• "the seven wonders of the [modern/ancient/natural] world": This is a common modern extension of the concept. It uses the original term as a template to create new lists (e.g., "the New Seven Wonders of the World," "the Seven Natural Wonders of the World"). These are distinct from the classical list.
  • The Taj Mahal is often listed among the seven wonders of the modern world.

Variants and Related Words

• Wonder (n): A feeling of amazement and admiration, caused by something beautiful, remarkable, or unfamiliar. Also, a person or thing that causes such a feeling.
  • The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder.
• Wonder of the World (n phr): A singular structure or place considered extraordinarily impressive, often included in one of the modern "wonders" lists.
  • Angkor Wat is considered a wonder of the world.

Synonyms

• Marvels of antiquity
• Architectural marvels of the ancient world

Related Phrases

• Eighth wonder of the world: A hyperbolic phrase used to describe something exceptionally impressive, suggesting it is worthy of being added to the canonical list.
  • The Panama Canal was once called the eighth wonder of the world.

Noun

1. impressive monuments created in the ancient world that were regarded with awe