1. the great size or extent of something; importance or significance
2. a numerical quantity or value, especially in mathematics or science
Usage: mathematics; science
3. the degree of brightness of a star as seen from Earth
Usage: astronomy

Examples

• The magnitude of the disaster became clear only after the rescue teams arrived.
• Scientists were surprised by the magnitude of the discovery's impact on physics.
• The vector has both direction and magnitude.
• The star's magnitude makes it visible to the naked eye.
• The earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale.
• Few people understood the true magnitude of his contribution to science.
• The magnitude of the problem requires immediate attention.