legion
legion Lexical Profile
legion Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A vast number of people or things; a multitude.
"A legion of volunteers arrived early in the morning to help restore the coastal wetlands."
The principal unit of the ancient Roman army, comprising between 3,000 and 6,000 infantry troops accompanied by cavalry.
"Archaeologists uncovered the remains of a fortress once occupied by a Roman legion in northern Britain."
A national association or organization of military veterans, or a specialized military force.
"The local veterans' legion organized a community parade and scholarship fundraiser."
• adjective
Great in number; very numerous or multitudinous (used predicatively).
"The logistical challenges of organizing an international summit are legion."
Word Nuance & Usage
When used as an adjective meaning 'great in number,' 'legion' functions exclusively as a predicate adjective following a linking verb (e.g., 'Her supporters are legion,' never 'her legion supporters').
• Rhymes for legion
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed via Old French from Latin 'legio' (a military levy or legion), derived from the verb 'legere' meaning 'to gather, select, or levy troops.' Its sense of a vast multitude stems from the Biblical demon in the Gospel of Mark who declared, 'My name is Legion: for we are many.'
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.