prodigy
noun
Did you know?
Is a prodigy a genius or a monster - or both? Nowadays, it's the talent that shines through, but back in the 15th century the word's meaning was more strongly influenced by that of its Latin ancestor, prodigium, meaning "omen" or "monster." Back then, a prodigy could be any strange or weird thing that might be an omen of things to come. Even in modern English, the word sometimes refers to an extraordinary deed or accomplishment. P.G. Wodehouse used that sense when he described how a character named Pongo Twistleton was "performing prodigies with the [billiard] cue."
Examples of prodigy in a Sentence
Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025
Once a magical prodigy, Sera Swan lost most her powers resurrecting her beloved, momentarily deceased great-aunt.
—Ashley Poston, New York Times, 21 May 2025
He's recruited by old friend Ruben (Javier Bardem) to join his underdog Formula 1 race team and tapped to mentor a rookie prodigy (Damson Idris).
—Brian Truitt, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2025
The capture the Flagg sweepstakes have been a hot topic, and the prodigy has handled the pressure well.
—Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for prodigy
Cite this Entry
“Prodigy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prodigy. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.
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prodigy
noun
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