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

“It’s an absolute miracle,” the father, Kasey, 39, of Salt Lake City, told The Times.

From Los Angeles Times

But when the dance later reached the hands of a certain German father of 20 children, Bach made sarabandes of such mystical serenity that eros equaled the sacred miracle of new life.

From Los Angeles Times

"Today my weaknesses were highlighted, but he can't really work miracles."

From BBC

A miracle required when your defence is populated by jittery players and leaks like a sieve.

From BBC

Just a few years ago Evergrande Group was a shining example of China's economic miracle.

From BBC

Related Words

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