Definition

In a way that causes great destruction or disaster.

Example

The earthquake affected the city cataclysmically, leaving many buildings in ruins.

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm last night?

Yeah, it was so intense! It affected everyone in the area.

I know, right? The flooding was cataclysmically bad.

Absolutely, I hope everyone is safe after that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cataclysmically → It is formed from "cataclysm" (from Greek "kataklysmos", meaning a flood or deluge) and the suffix "-ically" (meaning in a manner relating to). The word "cataclysmically" means in a manner relating to a catastrophic event or flood.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'flood' ('kataklysmos') that causes great destruction, and remember that 'cataclysmically' describes something happening in a catastrophic way.

Visually Confused Words