Vast

Definition

Vast is an adjective describing something of great size, extent, or quantity. It can also refer to something immense or boundless in nature.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /væst/
• Respelling: vast

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /vɑːst/
• Respelling: vahst

Etymology

The word "vast" originates from the Latin "vastus," meaning "immense" or "empty," and was borrowed into English through Middle French "vasto" in the late 16th century. Initially, it was used to describe large or desolate spaces.

Derivatives

• Vastly (adverb)
• Vastness (noun)
• Vaster (adjective, comparative)
• Vastest (adjective, superlative)
• Vastitude (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Immense
• Enormous
• Expansive

Antonyms

• Small
• Tiny
• Limited

Usage

The adjective "vast" is often used to describe physical size, quantities, or abstract concepts. For example, "The desert stretched over a vast expanse."

It is also commonly used metaphorically to emphasize magnitude. For example, "The company’s influence is vast in the tech industry."

Related Terms

• Immense: Extremely large or great.
• Boundless: Having no boundaries or limits.
• Expansive: Covering a wide area in scope or range.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of great size, extent, or quantity: Refers to something physically or conceptually large.
  • Example: "The ocean is a vast body of water."
• Boundless or limitless: Describes something that seems infinite or immeasurable.
  • Example: "The possibilities for exploration are vast."