mammoth
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmæməθ/
KK: /ˈmæməθ/
adjective
Definition
Very large or enormous in size.
Example
The mammoth tree in the park is over a hundred feet tall.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more mammoth
Superlative: most mammoth
Conversation
Did you see that mammoth statue at the museum yesterday?
Yeah, it was really impressive!
I couldn't believe how mammoth it actually looked in person.
Right? It felt like it could come to life any moment!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
enormous
gigantic
colossal
Antonyms
tiny
petite
minuscule
noun
Definition
A large, hairy elephant that lived a long time ago and is now extinct, known for its long tusks and thick fur.
Example
The mammoth roamed the earth during the Ice Age, and its remains can still be found in frozen ground.
Conversation
Did you know that the mammoth is one of the largest animals that ever lived?
Yeah, I saw a documentary about them last week!
They really were impressive creatures, especially with those long tusks.
Root Explanation
Mammoth originates from the Russian word 'mamont', which is derived from the Mansi word 'māma', meaning 'earth' or 'ground'. The term refers to the large prehistoric elephant-like creature that was often found buried in the earth, hence the connection to the ground.
Memory Tip
Think of the Mansi word for 'earth' ('māma') to remember that a mammoth is a creature often associated with being found in the ground.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.