mo ‧ men ‧ tous /məʊˈmentəs, mə- $ moʊ-, mə-/ BrE AmE adjective
[ Word Family: noun : ↑ moment , ↑ momentum ; adjective : ↑ momentary , ↑ momentous ; adverb : ↑ momentarily ]
a momentous event, change, or decision is very important because it will have a great influence on the future:
a momentous decision
Momentous events are taking place in the US.
His colleagues all recognized that this was a momentous occasion.
one of the most momentous days in British sport
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THESAURUS
■ very important
▪ essential very important, especially for the success, health, or safety of someone or something:
It is essential to speak the local language.
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essential supplies of food and clothing
▪ vital/crucial extremely important, because without it there could be serious problems:
His evidence was vital to the case.
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The US plays a crucial role in the region.
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The media are a vital part of the political system.
▪ key extremely important and having a big effect:
Wheeler had a key role in the development of the atom bomb.
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Timing is key.
▪ of great/considerable importance very important:
In the construction industry, health and safety are of considerable importance.
▪ momentous very important because it has a very great effect on the future:
Momentous events were taking place in Russia.
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a momentous decision