What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the root mirari, which means 'to wonder at' or 'to marvel at', so it literally translates to 'wonderful, marvelous or worthy of wonder'.
Which one should you use?
While mirabilis denotes something truly extraordinary, you might use eximius to describe something exceptional or outstanding or incredibilis for something that is incredible or unbelievable.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes depending on its role in a sentence. mirabilis is the default form, but it changes to mirabilem when it is the direct object of a verb (accusative singular) and to mirabili when used in the ablative case, such as after certain prepositions. The form mirabilia can be used as a neuter plural to mean 'amazing things'. Additionally, the gerundive form mirandus can be used to express the idea of something being 'worthy of being wondered at'.
Did you know?
- The Latin root mirari is the ancestor of the English word 'mirror', because a mirror is an object that creates an image worthy of being wondered at.
- While mirabilis describes something wonderful, the Latin root mirus could also be used ironically to describe something 'strange' or 'odd' in a negative way.
- The term mirabilis is used in the name of the 'Mirabilis jalapa' plant, commonly called the 'four o'clock flower', because of its amazing ability to change flower colors.
Examples in context
- Liber novus eius est mirabilis.Her new book is amazing.This sentence shows how to use mirabilis to describe a book.Tatoeba #11453469 by shekitten, translation #11452433 by carlosalberto
- Hic locus est mirabilis.This place is amazing.
- Visio mirabilis est.The sight is amazing.
Example conversation
Marcus and Julia are looking at a beautiful painting.
- MarcusVide hanc picturam, Julia!Look at this painting, Julia!
- JuliaVēre mirabilis est, Marce.It is truly amazing, Marcus.
- MarcusQuis hanc pinxit?Who painted this?
- JuliaNescio, sed est mirabilis.I don't know, but it is amazing.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mirabilis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
