Devastating

/ˈdɛvəˌsteɪtɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Causing severe and lasting damage or destruction.
The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal towns.
Overwhelmingly effective or impressive.
Her performance in the play was devastatingly powerful, leaving the audience in tears.
Causing great emotional pain or distress.
The news of his sudden departure was devastating to his family.

Etymology

From Latin 'devastare', meaning to lay waste or to pillage.

Common Phrases and Expressions

devastating news
Extremely bad or shocking information.
devastating loss
A loss that causes deep sorrow or shock.
devastating effects
The strong negative impact something has.

Related Words

devastation
The act of destroying or damaging something.
devastate
To cause extensive destruction or ruin.
devastator
One who or that which devastates.

Slang Meanings

Unbelievably impressive or impactful.
That movie was devastating, I couldn't stop thinking about it!
A strong insult or comeback.
Her response was so devastating that no one could argue back.