prodigy
prodigy Lexical Profile
prodigy Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person, especially a child or young individual, endowed with exceptional qualities, skill, or intelligence.
"The ten-year-old chess prodigy defeated several seasoned grandmasters at the international tournament."
An impressive or outstanding example of a particular quality, achievement, or phenomenon.
"The ancient aqueduct remains a prodigy of Roman engineering."
An extraordinary, unnatural, or marvelous event once regarded as an omen or portent (now chiefly historical or literary).
"Ancient chroniclers recorded the sudden solar eclipse as a terrifying prodigy foretelling the fall of the empire."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'prodigy' (an exceptionally talented young person) with 'protege' (a person who is guided and supported by a more experienced mentor) or 'progeny' (offspring or descendants).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin 'prodigium', meaning an omen, portent, or monster, probably formed from 'pro-' (before) and a root related to 'aio' (I say).