phenomenon Definition

phenomenon
noun phenomena

1. A happening perceived through the senses, especially something unusual or scientifically explainable.

Thesaurus: event, circumstance, experience, occurrence, happening, incident, rarity, curiosity, spectacle, sight.
2. An extraordinary or abnormal person or thing; a prodigy.

Thesaurus: marvel, miracle, wonder, sensation.
3. A feature of life, social existence, etc.

Example: stress as a work-related phenomenon

Etymology: 17c: from Greek phainomenon appearing, present participle of phainesthai to appear.

Info:

Note that phenomena is plural. ‘A phenomena' is often heard, but is not correct.