prodigy

[ prod-i-jee ]

noun

, plural prod·i·gies.

1. a person, especially a child or young person, having extraordinary talent or ability:

   a musical prodigy.

2. a marvelous example (usually followed by of ).
3. something wonderful or marvelous; a wonder.
4. something abnormal or monstrous.
5. Archaic. something extraordinary regarded as of prophetic significance.

prodigy

/ ˈprɒdɪdʒɪ /

noun

1. a person, esp a child, of unusual or marvellous talents
2. anything that is a cause of wonder and amazement
3. something monstrous or abnormal
4. an archaic word for omen

Word History and Origins

Origin of prodigy¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English prodige, from Latin prōdigium “prophetic sign”

Word History and Origins

Origin of prodigy¹

C16: from Latin prōdigium an unnatural happening, from pro- ¹+ -igium, probably from āio I say

Example Sentences

A Russian software company has invited a seven-year-old coding prodigy to join its management team, as soon as he is old enough to take up paid employment.

From BBC

Jiang's results turned her into an overnight sensation, and she was labelled a "prodigy" in the press and on social media.

From BBC

While Robinson was a union novice, Suaalii was a prodigy in the code.

From BBC

In Charles, Jones found an emerging prodigy, a musician who played a blend of blues, gospel and R&B he’d never heard.

From Los Angeles Times

Unfortunately, Jones’ first attempt at screenwriting didn’t include the same kind of realism and lived experiences as Damon and Affleck’s story of a South Boston janitor who also happens to be a math prodigy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• genius
• sensation
• whiz
• wizard
• wunderkind