Meaning & Definition of word "Devastating"

Devastating

/ˈdɛvəˌsteɪtɪŋ/

adjective:

  • 1. Causing severe and lasting damage or destruction.
    • Example: The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal towns.
  • 2. Overwhelmingly effective or impressive.
    • Example: Her performance in the play was devastatingly powerful, leaving the audience in tears.
  • 3. Causing great emotional pain or distress.
    • Example: 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 of devastating

Meaning: Unbelievably impressive or impactful.

Example Sentence: That movie was devastating, I couldn't stop thinking about it!

Meaning: A strong insult or comeback.

Example Sentence: Her response was so devastating that no one could argue back.