The word supercalifragilisticexpialidocious is 34 letters long.
Origins and Meaning
This famously long word gained widespread recognition through the 1964 Disney film Mary Poppins. In the film, Mary Poppins described it as the word to use "when you have nothing to say," implying its use as an elaborate filler or a whimsical expression for something extraordinary. It's often used playfully to describe something fantastically good or remarkable.
Dictionary Recognition
While widely known and used, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious appears in some dictionaries, though not all. Its inclusion often reflects its significant cultural impact and popular usage rather than strict academic linguistic classification as a formal, regularly used English word. For instance, you can find its definition and origin documented in reputable sources like Merriam-Webster.
Word Breakdown
To visualize its length:
| Word | Letter Count |
|---|---|
| supercalifragilisticexpialidocious | 34 |
Interesting Facts About Long Words
- Coined for Entertainment: Unlike many long scientific or technical terms, "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" was specifically created for entertainment purposes within a fictional narrative.
- Pronunciation Challenge: Its substantial length makes it a fun and often tricky word for many to pronounce correctly and quickly.
- Cultural Icon: It has transcended its origins to become a cultural touchstone, synonymous with impressive word length and whimsical charm.
