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cataclysmic

adjective

/ˌkatəˈklɪzmɪk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of cataclysmic

Extremely destructive, violent, or disruptive.
"The asteroid impact was cataclysmic, causing massive extinction of species."

Detailed meaning of cataclysmic

It is often used to describe natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, or volcanic eruptions, but it can also refer to man-made disasters such as nuclear accidents or large-scale warfare. Cataclysmic events are characterized by their ability to cause widespread damage and destruction, often leading to loss of life, displacement of people, and long-term negative effects on the environment and economy. These events can also have a significant impact on the social and political landscape. The term cataclysmic is often used to describe events of great magnitude and severity, that are capable of causing significant changes in the world. Overall, the word "cataclysmic" refers to an event or occurrence that is extremely destructive, violent, or disruptive, causing widespread damage, loss of life, and long-term negative effects.

Example sentences containing cataclysmic

1. The cataclysmic earthquake rattled the entire city, leaving devastation in its wake.
2. A cataclysmic storm swept through, tearing roofs off houses and uprooting trees.
3. The cataclysmic explosion sent shockwaves through the industrial district.
4. The cataclysmic impact of the asteroid wiped out entire species.
5. His cataclysmic outburst of anger shocked everyone in the room.
6. The cataclysmic financial crash led to widespread job losses.

History and etymology of cataclysmic

The adjective 'cataclysmic' has an etymology deeply rooted in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'kataklysmos,' which means 'a deluge' or 'a catastrophic flood.' This term was formed from 'kata,' meaning 'down' or 'completely,' and 'klyzein,' which means 'to wash' or 'to inundate.' In Greek mythology, cataclysms were often associated with massive floods, and the word 'cataclysmic' originally referred to events or forces of nature that brought about such overwhelming and destructive floods. Over time, 'cataclysmic' expanded its meaning to describe any extremely destructive, violent, or disruptive event, whether of natural or human origin. The etymology of 'cataclysmic' reflects the historical connection between devastating floods and the broader concept of disastrous and earth-shattering events, emphasizing their profound impact and destruction.

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Further usage examples of cataclysmic

1. The cataclysmic eruption of the volcano blanketed the sky with ash.
2. The cataclysmic battle for control of the kingdom lasted for years.
3. The cataclysmic collapse of the bridge sent cars plummeting into the river.
4. The cataclysmic event reshaped the landscape, altering it forever.
5. She faced a cataclysmic decision that would change her life forever.
6. The cataclysmic floodwaters submerged entire neighborhoods.
7. The cataclysmic clash of ideologies led to a bitter civil war.
8. His cataclysmic betrayal shattered their once unbreakable friendship.
9. The cataclysmic failure of the power grid left the city in darkness.
10. The cataclysmic impact of the pandemic disrupted daily life worldwide.
11. The cataclysmic hurricane left behind a trail of destruction and despair.
12. The cataclysmic collapse of the stock market wiped out fortunes.
13. The cataclysmic consequences of his actions were felt by all.
14. The earthquake was cataclysmic, causing widespread damage and loss of life.
15. The volcanic eruption was cataclysmic, completely destroying the nearby villages.
16. The nuclear war was cataclysmic, leaving the world in ruins.
17. The flood was cataclysmic, causing widespread devastation and displacement of people.
18. The financial crisis was cataclysmic, leading to the collapse of many companies and banks.
19. The terrorist attack was cataclysmic, causing widespread panic and destruction.
20. The revolution was cataclysmic, leading to the overthrow of the government.
21. The pandemic was cataclysmic, causing widespread illness and death.
22. The shipwreck was cataclysmic, leading to the loss of many lives.
23. The drought was cataclysmic, causing widespread food shortages and famine.
24. The cyber attack was cataclysmic, causing widespread disruption to critical infrastructure and services.