Definition of magnum opusnext
as in masterpiece
something (as a work of art) that is a great achievement and often its creator's greatest achievement this symphony is usually considered Beethoven's magnum opus

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Recent Examples of magnum opus Incorporating gorgeous long takes and occasionally extended running times — his magnum opus Sátántangó ran more than seven hours — Tarr depicted the human condition as one of intense suffering, but also one filled with immeasurable bleak beauty. Tim Grierson, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2026 Nonetheless, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi also owes a debt of gratitude to its Bilbao predecessor, a building considered by many to be Gehry’s magnum opus. Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 1 Jan. 2026 The Guggenheim Museum building in Northern Spain is regarded as his magnum opus. Matthew Cupelli, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Dec. 2025 More than 25 years after The Matrix, Lilly Wachowski is not surprised by the right-wing misinterpretation of her and sister Lana Wachowski’s magnum opus. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 29 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for magnum opus
Recent Examples of Synonyms for magnum opus
masterpiece
Noun
  • Best for straight, fine, or wavy textures, this cut is a masterpiece of proportions.
    Loren Savini, Allure, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Learn about the history of chocolate-making through the multimedia exhibits, create your own masterpiece as Lindt Master Chocolatier in training, and be sure to pose for a photo with the impossible-to-miss 30 foot tall chocolate fountain.
    Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Magnum opus.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/magnum%20opus. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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