Definition

Describing a situation that is disappointing or less exciting than expected, especially after a build-up of excitement or anticipation.

Example

The movie had an anticlimactic ending that left the audience feeling unsatisfied.

Conversation

Did you see the season finale last night?

Yes, but I found it a bit anticlimactic after all the build-up.

I totally agree! It felt like they rushed the ending.

Exactly! I expected something much more exciting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anticlimactic is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "climax" (from Greek "klimax", meaning ladder or the highest point). The word describes a situation that goes against the expected high point or peak, resulting in a disappointing outcome.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('anti-') the 'highest point' ('climax') — that's why anticlimactic means something that disappointingly falls short of expectations.

Visually Confused Words