prodigy
noun
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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."
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Examples of prodigy in a Sentence
Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2024
His remarkable journey from a teen prodigy to a global icon is characterized by his musical talent, charismatic stage presence, and a keen ability to innovate within the industry.
—Shelby Stewart, Essence, 30 May 2024
Traditional schooling seemed too constricting for the prodigy, her mom said.
—Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2024
The young prodigy was a fast study — perhaps too fast.
—Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 19 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for prodigy 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prodigy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Prodigy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prodigy. Accessed 6 Jun. 2024.
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prodigy
noun
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