I. ˈvast, -aa(ə)-, -ai-, -ȧ- adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: Latin vastus; akin to Old Irish fot, fut length
: characterized by greatness in size, bulk, amount, numbers, degree, intensity, or especially in extent, range, and comprehensiveness
stimulate consumption in these vast areas of low-paid labor, China, India, Russia, Africa — J.A.Hobson
the vast accumulation of knowledge, and of mechanical appliances, which we call civilization — W.R.Inge
the dog with vast unconcern, curled up on the floor and went to sleep — Jan Struther
Synonyms: see huge
II. noun
( -s )
1. : a boundless compass or space : immensity
the vast of heaven — John Milton
the dead vast and middle of the night — Shakespeare
2. chiefly dialect : a great quantity, amount, or number
took a vast of pains to have everything ready for the fair
III. adverb
chiefly dialect : vastly