miracle

[ mir-uh-kuhl ]

noun

1. an effect or extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to a supernatural cause.
2. such an effect or event manifesting or considered as a work of God.
3. a wonder; marvel.
4. a wonderful or surpassing example of some quality:

   a miracle of modern acoustics.

5. miracle play.

miracle

/ ˈmɪrəkəl /

noun

1. an event that is contrary to the established laws of nature and attributed to a supernatural cause
2. any amazing or wonderful event
3. a person or thing that is a marvellous example of something

   the bridge was a miracle of engineering

4. short for miracle play
5. modifier being or seeming a miracle

   a miracle cure

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

First recorded in 1125–75; Middle English miracle, miracul, from Old French miracle, from Latin mīrāculum, from mīrā(rī) “to wonder at” + -culum -cle ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of miracle¹

C12: from Latin mīrāculum, from mīrārī to wonder at

Example Sentences

Both ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine were held up as miracle cures for Covid but such claims have not been supported by science.

From BBC

By the time Sister Barnes accuses her captor of touting a magic trick as a miracle and Sister Paxton discovers the caged women, the film reveals its own deception.

From Los Angeles Times

“It was a complete miracle. I don’t know how I made it through that without falling off the cliff or burning alive.”

From Los Angeles Times

"I don't do miracles," is one of Maresca's favourite sayings, and you can imagine him pointing that out about a player who has struggled to fulfil their potential.

From BBC

She described finding her father this way as a “miracle”.

From BBC

Related Words

• marvel
• phenomenon
• rarity
• revelation
• surprise
• wonder