I'm learning
íslenska
stór — meaning in English: big
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
big
halda
lífsgæði
læknir
stór
samspil
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Icelandic for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'stór' in everyday conversations to describe size, such as when discussing the dimensions of a house or the amount of food at a gathering. For instance, someone might say, 'Þetta er stór húsið' (This is a big house) when showing guests around their home.
Synonyms & nuances
'Stór' is often compared to 'mikill', which also means 'big' or 'great'. While 'stór' specifically refers to physical size, 'mikill' can imply a greater sense of importance or intensity, such as in emotions or concepts. You might choose 'stór' when discussing tangible objects and 'mikill' when referring to abstract ideas.
Culture
'Stór' comes from Old Norse, reflecting the Viking heritage of Iceland. In Icelandic culture, size can carry significance, especially in folklore where giants and mythical creatures are often described as 'stór', embodying strength and power. This connection to the past makes the word not just a descriptor but also a link to Iceland's rich storytelling tradition.
FAQ
