magnitude
/ˈmæɡnɪtjuːd/ noun C1- The absolute or relative size, extent or importance of something.
- An order of magnitude.
- A number, assigned to something, such that it may be compared to others numerically
- Of a vector, the norm, most commonly, the two-norm.
- The apparent brightness of a star, with lower magnitudes being brighter; apparent magnitude
- A ratio of intensity expressed as a logarithm.
- A measure of the energy released by an earthquake (e.g. on the Richter scale).
Plural magnitudes
From the library
“Two offences of a very different nature, and by no means of equal magnitude, you last night laid to my charge.
In spite of the magnitude of the misfortune which thus suddenly frustrated his hopes, Dantès did not lose his presence of mind, but descended into the passage, dragging his unfortunate companion with him; then, half-carrying, half-supporting him, he managed to reach the abbé’s chamber, when he immediately laid the sufferer on his bed.
Observing this gradual transformation allowed me to genuinely appreciate the sheer magnitude of the North American continent.
Nevertheless, the sheer magnitude of the interstate system remains a breathtaking testament to mid-century engineering prowess and ambitious national vision.
Learn magnitude in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.