Monstrum

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A creature or being that is often grotesque or abnormal in physical appearance
2. an entity that inspires fear or dread due to its unnatural characteristics
3. a term used in historical or literary contexts to describe an extraordinary occurrence or phenomenon, typically with ominous implications

Etymology: Roman observers who saw a two-headed calf or a deformed infant did not describe it as a freak. They called it a "monstrum," a sign sent by the gods, and priests read such events as warnings of coming trouble. The noun is generally derived from "monere," "to warn," with the suffix "-strum," so its original sense was closer to "omen" than to "monster." The Latin term passed into Old French as "monstre" and reached English around 1300, still carrying the sense of a marvel or portent. The creature meaning that dominates today developed over later centuries. Some scholars instead link the root to "monstrare," "to show," which would make it a thing displayed as a wonder. The origin remains debated.

Synonyms: monster, beast, creature

Antonyms: angel, beauty, human