Apocalypse

/əˈpɒkəˌlɪps/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A term commonly used to refer to the end of the world or a catastrophic event leading to widespread destruction.
Many believe that climate change could lead to an apocalypse if not addressed soon.
In a religious context, it often refers to the final revelation of God, revealing the end times and the ultimate fate of humanity, as depicted in the Book of Revelation.
The apocalypse in the Book of Revelation describes visions of the end times and the judgment of humanity.
A genre in literature and film that focuses on catastrophic events and their aftermath.
The movie is set in a post-apocalyptic world where survivors struggle to rebuild society.

Etymology

From the Greek 'apokalypsis', meaning 'revelation'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

apocalyptic vision
A view or prediction of catastrophic events.
apocalyptic scenario
A hypothetical situation involving the end times or major disaster.
the apocalypse is upon us
A phrase indicating that significant and disastrous events are occurring.

Related Words

prophecy
A prediction of future events, often of a catastrophic nature.
dystopia
An imagined society that is undesirable or frightening, often due to post-apocalyptic conditions.
end times
A religious concept referring to the last days of the world.

Slang Meanings

The end of everything as we know it.
When the power went out for a whole week, it felt like an apocalypse in our city.
A chaotic, disastrous situation.
After that last-minute deadline change, it was an absolute apocalypse at the office.