Myriad
/ˈmɪr.i.əd/noun
An extremely large, indefinite number or a countless multitude.
Did you know?In Ancient Greek, myrias specifically meant 10,000, and in classical texts it could also be used for an immense host or swarm, showing how a precise number became a word for overwhelming abundance.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*mu̯eri- / *mey-
“A proposed ancient base related to counting or many; the exact pre-Greek origin is uncertain.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
myrias (μυριάς)
“Ten thousand; by extension, a vast multitude.”
Classical Latin
Latin
myrias / myriades
“Borrowed Greek form used for a great number, especially 10,000.”
16th Century
English
myriade / myriad
“A ten-thousand; later, an indefinitely large number.”
Modern English
English
myriad
“An innumerable or extremely great number; also used adjectivally for countless.”
Explore more surprising origins