(enormities)
1.
If you refer to the ~ of something that you consider to be a problem or difficulty, you are referring to its very great size, extent, or seriousness.
I was numbed by the ~ of the responsibility...
N-UNCOUNT: usu the N of n
2.
If you refer to the ~ of an event, you are emphasizing that it is terrible and frightening.
It makes no sense to belittle the ~ of the disaster which has occurred.
N-UNCOUNT: usu N of n emphasis