havoc
6 synonyms for havoc, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Widespread destruction, chaos, or disorder.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use havoc
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
wreak havoc
cause havoc
havoc ensued
Etymology
From the Old French battle cry "crier havok" — a signal for soldiers to seize plunder — ultimately from a word for a hook or pruning tool used for grabbing loot.
Full origin of havoc →Frequently asked questions
What does “havoc” mean?
The word “havoc” means widespread destruction, chaos, or disorder. In plain terms, total chaos and destruction, almost always used with "wreak" — "wreak havoc" is the standard phrase.
How do you pronounce “havoc”?
“Havoc” is pronounced HA-vuhk (/ˈhævək/ in IPA).
How do you use “havoc” in a sentence?
Here is “havoc” used in a sentence: “The storm wreaked havoc across the coastal towns.”
What part of speech is “havoc”?
Depending on how it is used, “havoc” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “havoc” come from?
The word “havoc” comes from Old French. From the Old French battle cry "crier havok" — a signal for soldiers to seize plunder — ultimately from a word for a hook or pruning tool used for grabbing loot.
Is “havoc” a common word?
“Havoc” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “havoc” have?
“Havoc” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: widespread destruction, chaos, or disorder.
