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Meaning of devastating
The primary meaning of "devastating" refers to something that causes severe damage or destruction, either physically or emotionally.
Etymology of devastating
The word "devastating" originates from the Latin "devastare," which means "to lay waste," and is derived from "de" (meaning "from" or "out of") and "vastare" (meaning "to lay waste")
Historically, the term has been used to describe events or actions that cause widespread destruction or damage, and its usage has evolved to include emotional and psychological impacts
Synonyms
catastrophic
disastrous
calamitous
destructive
ruinous
dire
appalling
horrific
terrible
dreadful
frightening
alarming
shocking
heartbreaking
demoralizing
disheartening
crushing
overwhelming
annihilating
extirpating
eradicating
demolishing
shattering
devastating
ravaging
laying waste
desolating
annihilative
extinctional
cataclysmic
apocalyptic
Definitions
- Causing severe damage or destruction, either physically or emotionally
- Extremely shocking or upsetting, causing a strong feeling of sadness or horror
Usage Examples
- The news of the natural disaster was devastating to the families affected
- The critic's devastating review of the play led to its early closure
- The consequences of climate change can be devastating to ecosystems and human societies
Antonyms
mild
moderate
slight
minor
insignificant
negligible
harmless
benign
beneficial
advantageous
favorable
positive
uplifting
encouraging
heartening
reassuring
comforting
soothing
calming
tranquilizing
pacifying
mollifying