Definition:Myriad
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Definition
Myriad is an archaic word for the number $10 \ 000$ (ten thousand).
Also defined as
In natural language, the word myriads was at one time a popular word to use as a rhetorical flourish for many.
It has been replaced in more modern times with millions, billions, gazillions, and so on.
Also see
Linguistic Note
The word myriad is of Greek origin, and has connotations of vast horde.
As pointed out by David Wells in his Curious and Interesting Numbers, what may have been a considerable size for a Greek army is a moderate attendance at a present-day sports event.
Sources
- 1986: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers ... (previous) ... (next): $-1$ and $i$
- 1986: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers ... (previous) ... (next): $10^{51}$
- 1997: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers (2nd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): $-1$ and $i$
- 1997: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers (2nd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): $10^{51}$