How Do You Spell CATACLYSM?

Pronunciation: [kˈatɐklˌɪzəm] (IPA)

The word "cataclysm" refers to a violent and sudden disaster or upheaval. Its spelling can be broken down phonetically as /kəˈtæklɪzəm/. The "ca-" at the beginning is pronounced like "kuh," with a soft "uh" sound. The "-ta-" is straightforward, with a short "a" sound. The "cl-" and "sm" are also pronounced as they appear. The stressed syllable is "-clysm," with a long "i" sound, and the final syllable "-ism" has a short "i" sound. Overall, the phonetic transcription of "cataclysm" reflects its chaotic and powerful meaning.

CATACLYSM Meaning and Definition

  1. Cataclysm is a noun defined as a violent and disastrous event that causes massive and sudden changes or destruction. It refers to a moment of extreme upheaval or catastrophic transformation, often associated with natural disasters, but it can also encompass political, social, or economic disruptions.

    In the context of natural disasters, cataclysms include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, hurricanes, and other events that result in widespread devastation and loss of life. These cataclysmic events can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, render regions uninhabitable, and have long-lasting effects on ecosystems and communities.

    Beyond natural phenomena, cataclysm can also describe significant and radical transformations in human history. Political revolutions, wars, economic collapses, and large-scale social disruptions that drastically change the course of a society are examples of cataclysms. Such events often bring about fundamental changes in power structures, cultural norms, and social systems.

    The term cataclysm is derived from the Greek word "kataklysmos" meaning "to inundate or deluge." It implies a sudden and overwhelming force that alters the existing state of affairs. Overall, cataclysm encompasses any event of immense impact or consequence that reshapes landscapes, lives, and collective histories.

  2. Any violent inundation that sweeps over a country.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CATACLYSM *

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Other Common Misspellings for CATACLYSM

Etymology of CATACLYSM

The word "cataclysm" can be traced back to the ancient Greek language. Specifically, it is derived from the Greek word "kataklusmos" (κατακλυσμός), which means "deluge" or "flood". This Greek word combines "kata" (meaning "down") and "klyzein" (meaning "to wash over" or "to surge"). The term refers to a violent and overwhelming natural disaster, particularly one involving water, such as a flood or a large-scale destruction caused by intense earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Similar spelling words for CATACLYSM

Plural form of CATACLYSM is CATACLYSMS

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