August
/ˈɔːɡəst/
adjectiveC2
Definition
August describes something or someone that is very noble, respected, and impressive. It often refers to people with high status or events and places that inspire admiration because of their dignity and importance. It is not used for everyday things but for those that feel special and serious.
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See It in Action
Very respected and impressive in appearance or character
- •The august professor was invited to speak at the conference.
- •The august ceremony was attended by many important guests.
- •The old, august building stood quietly in the city center.
Majestic or grand in style (less common)
- •The august halls of the palace echoed with history.
- •Her august presence made the room feel more serious and important.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "august" like "big" or "important," but much more serious and respectful—like a king or queen, not just any person
- ✓Picture a large, beautiful palace where important ceremonies happen, full of calm and respect
- ✓It's the feeling you get when you meet someone very wise or when you see something very grand and quiet
- ✓Sounds like "AUG-ust" → Imagine a giant oak tree (strong and old) standing proudly in a quiet garden
- ✓In stories, august people are like wise old kings or respected leaders who make big decisions
- ✓NOT like "famous" (just well known), august means deeply respected and honorable, not just popular
- ✓NOT like "happy" or "fun"—august is serious and dignified, not playful or casual
- ✓NOT like "big" in size only—august is about respect and honor, not just physical size
Try Other Words
- •Majestic: grand and beautiful in a way that causes admiration (Use when focusing on appearance more than respect)
- •Dignified: showing calm and serious behavior that deserves respect (Use when emphasizing behavior and manner)
- •Noble: having high moral qualities or social rank (Use when talking about good character or high social position)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no clear prefix or suffix; a single root word)
- •Etymology: From Latin "augustus," meaning "consecrated" or "venerable," originally a title for Roman emperors, showing great respect
- •Historical development: Used in English since the 1500s to describe people or things worthy of honor and respect, especially related to nobility and grandeur
- •Modern usage: Mainly used in formal or literary language to describe people, places, or events that are grand, dignified, and respected
Reflect & Connect
•What kinds of people or places in your life would you describe as august? Why?
•How does using the word "august" change the feeling of a story or description compared to simpler words like "important"?
Fill in the blanks
1.The ___ professor spoke slowly and with great wisdom, making everyone listen carefully.
2.At the ceremony, the ___ guests arrived wearing formal clothes and serious faces.
3.The old castle had an ___ atmosphere that made visitors feel they were in a special place.
4.Unlike a casual meeting, an ___ event requires respect and quiet attention from everyone.
5.When someone is described as august, it means they are ___ and worthy of honor.
6.The building’s ___ design showed it was built to impress and last for many years.
7.The king’s ___ presence made the room feel ___ and full of respect.