myriad

What does “myriad” mean?

noun.a countless or extremely great number.

SAT Usage

this term is often found in passages discussing nature, science, or philosophical concepts, emphasizing the vastness and diversity of a subject. It implies not just a large quantity, but an overwhelming or unquantifiable abundance, distinguishing it from similar terms like "countless," which lacks the nuance of variety and complexity.

Common Confusions

Myriad implies an overwhelming variety or complexity in a large number, while countless usually suggests a simple, unquantifiable quantity without emphasizing diversity.

Example Sentences

• Earth hosts a myriad of animals.

• Earth hosts myriad animals.

• The artist was inspired by the myriad colors of the sunset, each hue blending seamlessly into the next, creating a breathtaking panorama.