Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Apocalypse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

☠️
Add to dictionary

apocalypse

[əˈpɑːkəlɪps ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

end of the world

An apocalypse is a very serious event resulting in great destruction and change. It is often associated with the end of the world or a catastrophic event that brings about widespread devastation.

Synonyms

Armageddon, catastrophe, doomsday.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
apocalypse

Use when referring to an end-of-the-world scenario or a massive disaster, often in a religious or mythical context.

  • Some people believe an apocalypse will occur and change the world forever.
  • The movie portrayed a zombie apocalypse that devastated the planet.
catastrophe

Best used when referring to a sudden and widespread disaster, which can be natural or man-made, causing great damage or suffering.

  • The earthquake was a true catastrophe for the small town.
  • Failing the exam was a personal catastrophe for her.
doomsday

Suitable for contexts involving a predicted or ultimate end of the world, often used to evoke fear or urgency.

  • The scientist warned of a potential doomsday if climate change continued unchecked.
  • The film depicted a doomsday scenario where humanity struggled to survive.
Armageddon

Appropriate for describing a final, decisive battle or conflict, usually derived from biblical prophecy.

  • The leaders feared that the confrontation could turn into a modern-day Armageddon.
  • People discussed the potential for Armageddon given the escalating tensions between the two countries.

Examples of usage

  • The apocalypse in the movie depicted the complete destruction of civilization.
  • After the nuclear war, many feared that it was the beginning of the apocalypse.
  • The prophet predicted an apocalypse that would cleanse the world of sin.
  • The natural disasters seemed like a prelude to the apocalypse.
  • Survivors of the apocalypse struggled to rebuild society.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religion

  • Many religions have their own stories about the apocalypse, often involving divine judgment and the end of current society.
  • In Christianity, the Book of Revelation describes a detailed vision of the end times and the final battle between good and evil.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous films and books explore apocalyptic themes, envisioning various scenarios like zombie outbreaks or natural disasters.
  • Iconic works include 'Mad Max' and 'The Road', which portray life in a world changed by catastrophic events.

Psychology

  • The concept of apocalypse can create feelings of fear and anxiety about the future.
  • It often reflects humanity's collective worries about climate change, nuclear war, and other existential threats.

Literature

  • The theme of impending disaster is prevalent in dystopian literature, a genre that critiques present societal issues.
  • Authors like Cormac McCarthy and Margaret Atwood explore how society and human relationships are tested in apocalyptic scenarios.

Origin of 'apocalypse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'apokalypsis', meaning 'revelation' or 'disclosure'.
  • Originally, it referred to the uncovering of hidden truths or the end of the world being revealed.

The word 'apocalypse' originated from the Greek word 'apokalypsis', meaning 'uncovering' or 'revelation'. In religious contexts, it often refers to the final destruction of the world, as described in the Book of Revelation in the Bible. Over time, the term has come to be used more broadly to describe any catastrophic event or complete devastation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,763, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.