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adj Uncommon

apocalyptic

uh-PO-kuh-lihp-tihk

Apocalyptic (adj) means describing or resembling total, world-ending disaster. Example: “The wildfire left an apocalyptic landscape of ash and ruin.”

adj
1
Describing or resembling total, world-ending disaster.
"The wildfire left an apocalyptic landscape of ash and ruin."
"Critics called the report's tone needlessly apocalyptic."

How to use apocalyptic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribing a scene, mood, or prediction of catastrophic, civilization-ending scale.

Common pairings
apocalyptic vision apocalyptic scenario apocalyptic tone

Word forms

apocalyptics plural

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Test yourself on “apocalyptic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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Can you complete this real example?

The wildfire left an _____ landscape of ash and ruin.

Etymology

From Greek apokalyptikos, "revelatory," related to apocalypse.

Origin: Greek

Antonyms

nonapocalyptic

Rhymes for apocalyptic

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Frequently asked questions

What does “apocalyptic” mean?

The word “apocalyptic” means describing or resembling total, world-ending disaster. In plain terms, describing a scene, mood, or prediction of catastrophic, civilization-ending scale.

How do you pronounce “apocalyptic”?

“Apocalyptic” is pronounced uh-PO-kuh-lihp-tihk (/əˈpɒ.kə.lɪp.tɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “apocalyptic” in a sentence?

Here is “apocalyptic” used in a sentence: “The wildfire left an apocalyptic landscape of ash and ruin.”

What is the opposite of “apocalyptic”?

The opposite of “apocalyptic” — its antonyms — is nonapocalyptic.

What part of speech is “apocalyptic”?

“Apocalyptic” is an adjective.

Where does the word “apocalyptic” come from?

The word “apocalyptic” comes from Greek. From Greek apokalyptikos, "revelatory," related to apocalypse.

Is “apocalyptic” a common word?

“Apocalyptic” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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