Looking up...
monster
/ˈmɒnstər/
a large, frightening creature
The children were terrified by the monster in the horror movie.
The children were scared because the movie featured a scary creature.
general
a large, frightening creature, often from folklore or fiction
The legend tells of a monster that lurks in the deep lake.
The story describes a scary creature that lives in a deep lake.
Often used in fantasy and horror contexts.
figurative
a person who is extremely cruel or violent
The dictator was called a monster for his brutal actions.
The leader was described as cruel and violent.
Used metaphorically to describe someone with evil or inhumane behavior.
Collocations
monster trucka large, heavily modified truck used for off-road racingmonster of a cara very large or powerful car
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Remember that 'monster' can describe both real and imaginary creatures, as well as people with cruel behavior.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Using 'monster' too often to describe people can be offensive, so use it carefully.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'monstour,' from Old French 'monstre,' from Latin 'monstrum' (a portent, omen, monster), from 'monere' (to warn).
Usage Notes
The word can be used literally to describe mythical or fictional creatures, or figuratively to describe someone with cruel behavior.
Word Breakdown
mon-
a prefix meaning 'single' or 'one,' but in this word, it is part of the Latin root
prefix-ster
a suffix that can indicate a person or thing, but in this case, it is part of the Latin root
suffixEnglish Dictionary