Word of the Day: Copious
What's the story
"Copious" is an adjective that describes something in large quantity or abundance.
It is often used to indicate an ample or plentiful supply of something, whether it's food, information, or even rainfall.
For example, one might say, "She took 'copious' notes during the lecture," meaning she wrote a lot.
The word adds depth to descriptions, making them more vivid and precise.
Origin
Origin of the word
The word "copious" comes from the Latin word copiosus, which means "plentiful" or "abundant."
It is derived from copia, meaning "abundance" or "wealth."
The term entered the English language in the 14th century, originally used to describe an overflowing supply of something, such as resources or words.
Over time, its usage expanded to various contexts, including academic writing, nature, and everyday conversations.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'copious'
There are many synonyms for "copious" that can be used depending on the context.
Some common ones include "abundant," meaning present in large amounts; "plentiful," which suggests more than enough; "profuse," indicating an excessive or lavish amount; "bountiful," which conveys generosity; and "ample," referring to something sufficiently large or spacious.
Each synonym carries a slightly different nuance, allowing for more precise word choices.
Usage
Sentence usage
To understand how "copious" is used in different contexts, consider these examples:
"The author provided 'copious' details about the historical event, making the book highly informative."
"After the intense workout, he drank 'copious' amounts of water to stay hydrated."
"During the celebration, food and drinks were served in 'copious' quantities, ensuring that no guest went hungry."
Impactful
Why use the word
Using "copious" in your writing or speech makes descriptions more precise and impactful.
Instead of saying "a lot" or "many," "copious" conveys a sense of vastness in a more refined way.
It helps paint a clearer picture and adds richness to language, making it particularly useful in storytelling, academic writing, and even everyday conversations where you want to emphasize abundance.