multifaceted

Pronunciation: mul-tih-FAS-ih-tid

adjective

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of multifaceted

Having many distinct facets or aspects, often referring to something complex, diverse, or multi-dimensional in nature.

Origin of multifaceted

Language of origin: French

Root word: facette

Original meaning: little face or surface

How it evolved: Originally referring to the small surfaces of a gemstone, it evolved metaphorically to describe anything with multiple aspects or dimensions.

Derived from the prefix 'multi-' meaning 'many' and 'faceted,' from 'facet,' referring to a side or surface of a geometrical shape.

First known use: 17th century

How to Remember multifaceted

Think of a diamond with many facets—each facet reflects light differently, just like something multifaceted has many sides or aspects to explore.

Synonyms for multifaceted

Antonyms of multifaceted

multifaceted in a Sentence

  1. The multifaceted nature of the problem required input from experts in economics, sociology, and environmental science.
  2. As a multifaceted artist, she excelled in painting, sculpting, and music composition, earning accolades in each domain.
  3. The company’s multifaceted marketing strategy capitalized on both traditional media and cutting-edge digital platforms.

multifaceted in Literature & Culture

The word 'multifaceted' is commonly used in literature to describe complex characters, such as Shakespeare's Hamlet, who embodies conflicting emotions and motivations.

Usage Notes

While often used to describe abstract concepts like personalities, strategies, or problems, 'multifaceted' can also apply to physical objects, such as gemstones. Avoid confusing it with 'multipurpose,' which implies functionality rather than complexity.

Why multifaceted Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is frequently tested on the GRE because it demonstrates an ability to describe complexity and multi-dimensionality, skills essential for analyzing arguments and synthesizing information.

Word Family

facet (noun)
A specific side or aspect of something, especially one of many.
multifacetedness (noun)
The quality of having many facets or aspects.
faceted (adjective)
Having distinct surfaces or aspects.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'facet' originated in gemology to describe the flat surfaces of a cut gemstone, emphasizing the beauty of complexity.
  • Multifaceted is often used in political speeches to describe policies that aim to address diverse aspects of society.
  • The word is visually evocative, often conjuring images of dazzling gems or intricate mosaics.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with M

  • Mendacious — Not telling the truth; lying or dishonest.
  • macabre — having a quality of horror or grimness
  • macabre — having a quality of horror or grimness
  • magisterial — possessing great authority
  • magisterial — possessing great authority
  • magnanimous — noble and generous in spirit
  • magnanimous — noble and generous in spirit
  • magnify — To make something appear larger than it is; to intensify
  • magnify — To make something appear larger than it is; to intensify
  • maintain — To continue to have or keep something in existence