Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
mastodon
The term primarily refers to the prehistoric proboscidean, evoking images of immense size and antiquity. When used in a biological context, it is a neutral, scientific descriptor.
In a figurative sense, the word describes a person of towering influence or stature within a specific professional domain. This usage carries a connotation of longevity and dominance, often implying that the individual is a foundational figure whose presence looms over the rest of the field. It is more formal than calling someone a "big fish" and more specific than "giant," emphasizing a legacy of power and expertise.
Meanings
Examples
The museum has a complete skeleton of a mastodon on display.
Look at the size of those tusks on the mastodon.
I wonder if the mastodon lived in this region during the ice age.
The paleontologist carefully brushed the dirt off the mastodon tooth.
I cannot believe I am meeting a mastodon of modern physics today.
She has become a mastodon in the world of investigative journalism.
She has become a mastodon in the world of investigative journalism.
You are talking about a mastodon of the legal profession.
You are talking about a mastodon of the legal profession.