Marvel/ˈmɑːrvl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Unexpected Surprise Use 'marvel' for things that astonish you, often unexpectedly, not just for anything pleasant. The Grand Canyon is a natural marvel. Pro Tip 2/3Positive Impact 'Marvel' carries a positive connotation, implying admiration and pleasure. His artwork was such a marvel that everyone smiled. Pro Tip 3/3Scale or Excellence 'Marvel' often refers to grand scale achievements or excellent performance. The smartphone is a technological marvel of our time.