- large
-
I. adjective
(larger; largest)
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, broad, wide, generous, from Latin largus generous, plentiful
Date: 12th century
1. obsolete lavish
2. obsolete
a. ample, abundant
b. extensive, broad
3.
a. having more than usual capacity or scope ; comprehensive <take the large view> <will take a larger role in the negotiations> b. powerful, forceful c. very successful or popular <a large rock band> 4. a. exceeding most other things of like kind especially in quantity or size ; big b. dealing in great numbers or quantities <a large and highly profitable business> 5. obsolete a. of language or expression coarse, vulgar b. lax in conduct ; loose 6. of a wind favorable 7. extravagant, boastful <large talk> • largeness noun • largish adjective II. adverb Date: 14th century 1. obsolete in abundance ; amply, liberally 2. with the wind abaft the beam 3. in a large manner ; extravagantly <living large> III. noun Date: 14th century 1. obsolete liberality, generosity 2. slang a thousand dollars
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.