phenomenon

[ fi-nom-uh-non, -nuhn ]

noun

, plural phe·nom·e·na [fi-, nom, -, uh, -n, uh] phe·nom·e·nons.

1. a fact, occurrence, or circumstance observed or observable:

   to study the phenomena of nature.

   Synonyms: incident, event

2. something that is impressive or extraordinary.

   Synonyms: miracle, marvel

3. a remarkable or exceptional person; prodigy; wonder.

   Synonyms: miracle, marvel

4. Philosophy.
   1. an appearance or immediate object of awareness in experience.
   2. Kantianism. a thing as it appears to and is constructed by the mind, as distinguished from a noumenon, or thing-in-itself.

phenomenon

/ fɪˈnɒmɪnən /

noun

1. anything that can be perceived as an occurrence or fact by the senses
2. any remarkable occurrence or person
3. philosophy
   1. the object of perception, experience, etc
   2. (in the writings of Kant) a thing as it appears and is interpreted in perception and reflection, as distinguished from its real nature as a thing-in-itself Compare noumenon

Usage

Although phenomena is often treated as if it were singular, correct usage is to employ phenomenon with a singular construction and phenomena with a plural: that is an interesting phenomenon (not phenomena ); several new phenomena were recorded in his notes

Word History and Origins

Origin of phenomenon¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Late Latin phaenomenon, from Greek phainómenon “appearance,” noun use of neuter of phainómenos, present participle of phaínesthai “to appear, become visible,” passive of phaínein “to show, bring to light, make known”

Word History and Origins

Origin of phenomenon¹

C16: via Late Latin from Greek phainomenon, from phainesthai to appear, from phainein to show

Example Sentences

They've been a toy staple in households across the country and inspired the animated series "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic," which became a pop culture phenomenon and inspired male fans known as "bronies."

From Salon

The area, including the tourist resorts of Marbella, Velez and Estepona, is expected to take the brunt of the extreme weather phenomenon known as a "Dana".

From BBC

On social media, many are discussing the social phenomenon of "taking revenge on society", where individuals act on personal grievances by attacking strangers.

From BBC

There’s even a phrase for the phenomenon: “Tipflation.”

From Salon

It was incredible for me to experience that giant pop phenomenon through my formative years.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anomaly
• aspect
• circumstance
• episode
• event
• experience
• fact
• incident
• miracle
• paradox
• reality
• sensation