formidable — Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈfɔːrmɪdəbəl/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother may look sweet, but she's a formidable poker player who has never lost a game.
- The mountain posed a formidable barrier to the expedition team.
- She built a formidable business empire from a small coffee cart.
formidable
ADJECTIVE[/ˈfɔːrmɪdəbəl/]
Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.

Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.

The formidable dragon's roar is deplorable, making it adorable!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'formidabilis' meaning 'causing fear or dread.' Roman soldiers used this word to describe intimidating enemy forces that inspired terror on the battlefield.
Breakdown
formid- (fear, dread) + -able (worthy of, causing) = 'worthy of fear' or 'causing dread'
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“My grandmother may look sweet, but she's a formidable poker player who has never lost a game.”
“The mountain posed a formidable barrier to the expedition team.”
“She built a formidable business empire from a small coffee cart.”
“The quiz show contestant faced formidable questions about quantum physics.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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