'colossal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'colossus,' where 'colossus' meant 'a gigantic statue.'

'colossus' transformed into the French word 'colossal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'colossal' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a gigantic statue,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely large or great in size.'