Plethora

Noun

Definition: A large or excessive amount of something.

Synonyms: Abundance, Excess, Surplus

Antonyms: Scarcity, Shortage

Examples:
  • The store had a plethora of options for customers to choose from.
  • He was overwhelmed by the plethora of tasks he had to complete.
Mnemonics:
  • "Plenty of" can be used as a mnemonic for remembering the meaning of plethora.
  • Remember the saying "A plethora of choices" to associate the word with an excessive amount.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "plethora" originated from the late 16th century from the ancient Greek word "plēthōra" which means "fullness or abundance." It entered the English language through Latin.

Historical Usage:

The word initially referred to a medical condition where there is an excess of blood in the body. Over time, its usage expanded to refer to an excess or abundance in a general sense.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"A plethora of options"

Explanation:

Refers to a wide variety or abundance of choices.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Assuming plethora means scarcity or a limited amount.

Explanation:

Plethora actually means the opposite, an excessive or abundant amount. This misconception may arise due to the similarity in spelling with the word "paucity," which means scarcity.

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