Fantastic

Definition

Fantastic is an adjective used to describe something extraordinary, imaginative, or highly remarkable. It can also refer to things that are unreal, fanciful, or derived from fantasy.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fænˈtæstɪk/
• Respelling: fan-TAS-tik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fænˈtæstɪk/
• Respelling: fan-TAS-tik

Etymology

The word "fantastic" originates from the Greek "phantastikos," meaning "able to create images in the mind," derived from "phantazein" (to make visible). It entered Old French as "fantastique" and later Middle English, evolving to signify both imaginative and extraordinary qualities.

Derivatives

• Fantasy (noun)
• Fantastical (adjective)
• Fantastically (adverb)
• Fantasia (noun)
• Fantasize (verb)

Synonyms

• Wonderful
• Imaginative
• Incredible

Antonyms

• Ordinary
• Realistic
• Unremarkable

Usage

The word "fantastic" is often used to emphasize excellence, creativity, or surreal qualities. For example, "The movie had a fantastic storyline," or "Her ideas are always fantastic and imaginative."

Related Terms

• Imagination: The ability to form new ideas or concepts.
• Dreamlike: Having surreal or fantastical qualities.
• Fiction: Literature or content created from the imagination rather than fact.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Extraordinary or remarkable; exceptionally good: Describes something impressive or outstanding.
  • Example: "The team delivered a fantastic performance."
• Imaginative or fanciful; not realistic: Refers to things rooted in fantasy or imagination.
  • Example: "The story is filled with fantastic creatures and magical worlds."
• Excessive or extravagant: Describes something beyond what is reasonable or normal.
  • Example: "The cost of the project was fantastic, exceeding initial estimates."