An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A combining form meaning “large, long, great, excessive,” used in the formation of compound words; opposite of → micro-.

Etymology (EN): From Gk. makros “long, large,” from PIE base *mak-/*mek- “long, thin” (cf. L. macer “lean, thin;” O.N. magr, O.E. mæger “lean, thin”).

Etymology (PE): Dorošt “large; rough, fierce,” from Mid.Pers. društ “harsh, coarse;” O.Pers. darš- “to dare,” daršam (adv.) “mightily;” Av. darš- “to dare,” darši-, daršita- “bold, strong;” cf. Skt. dhars- “to be bold, courageous, to attack,” dhrsita- “bold, daring;” Gk. thrasys “bold;” O.E. durran; E. dare.