cataclysmic
|cat-a-clysm-ic|
/ˌkætəˈklɪzmɪk/
sudden destructive upheaval
Etymology
'cataclysmic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kataklysmos', where 'kata-' meant 'down' and 'klyzein' meant 'to wash.'
'cataclysmic' changed from Late Latin 'cataclysmus' (from Greek 'kataklysmos'), passed into Middle English as 'cataclysm', and the adjective form 'cataclysmic' arose in modern English by adding the suffix '-ic'.
Initially, it meant 'flood' or 'deluge' (a washing down), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sudden, violent upheaval or disaster.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or resulting in a violent natural disaster or great destruction; disastrous.
The eruption had cataclysmic consequences for the coastal towns.
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Adjective 2
extremely significant or transformative in effect; causing profound upheaval (often used figuratively).
The policy change had cataclysmic effects on the industry’s structure.
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Last updated: 2025/12/09 08:07