Definition

In a way that causes great damage or destruction.

Example

The storm devastated the town, and the aftermath was devastatingly clear.

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm last night?

Yeah, it was devastatingly strong; my neighbor's tree fell down!

That's terrible! I hope everyone is okay.

Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the damage is going to take a while to fix.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Devastatingly → It is formed from "devastate" (from Latin "devastare", meaning to lay waste or destroy) and the suffix "-ingly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "devastatingly" means in a manner that causes great destruction or distress.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'devastate' which means to destroy, and remember that 'devastatingly' describes doing something in a way that causes great destruction or distress.

Visually Confused Words