Brilliant Meaning and Definition
Brilliant
Pronunciation
/ˈbrɪlhɪnt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Something or someone that shines brightly, is remarkable, or is full of talent or skill.
Examples
- The brilliant scientist made a groundbreaking discovery.
- The city’s Brilliant Tower is an iconic landmark.
Synonyms
- Genius
- Exceptional
Antonyms
- Mundane
- Ordinary
Etymology
The word “brilliant” comes from the Latin “brillans”, meaning “shining” or “glowing”.
Usage Notes
When describing someone or something, “brilliant” is often used to emphasize their exceptional talent, skill, or achievement.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the term “brilliant” has been used to describe characters in fiction, such as Sherlock Holmes, who is often referred to as a “brilliant detective”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Brilliant minds think alike” is a common phrase indicating that two people with exceptional cognitive abilities share a similar idea or perspective.
Related Words or Phrases
- Bright
- Exceptional
- Outstanding
Collocations
- Brilliant ideas
- Brilliant performance
- Brilliant career
Frequency of Use
The word “brilliant” is commonly used in everyday language to describe people or things that stand out for their exceptional qualities.
Common Misspellings
- Brillient
- Briliant
- Brilant