Doomsday Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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doomsday

[ˈduːmzˌdeɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

end of the world

Doomsday refers to the final day of the world's existence, often associated with catastrophic events or the apocalypse.

Synonyms

Armageddon, apocalypse, end times.

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Word Description / Examples
doomsday

Used to refer to a day or time when disaster or terrible events are forecasted or expected to occur. It often has a general, dramatic tone rather than a specific religious or cultural implication.

  • The media kept broadcasting doomsday scenarios about the effects of climate change.
  • She prepared a doomsday kit containing food and supplies for emergencies.
apocalypse

Often refers to an event involving destruction or disaster of global proportions. It can be used in both religious and secular contexts and is more likely to evoke end-of-the-world scenarios.

  • Many people feared an apocalypse as the supervolcano showed signs of erupting.
  • The movie depicts an apocalypse brought about by a zombie outbreak.
Armageddon

Specifically refers to the final battle between good and evil at the end of the world, according to Christian eschatology. Also used metaphorically for any catastrophic event that seems like a final, decisive confrontation.

  • The book of Revelation describes Armageddon as the end of the world.
  • The company was preparing for financial Armageddon due to the unprecedented market crash.
end times

Primarily used in religious contexts to denote the final period of the world's history prior to the ultimate judgment or destruction as described in various religious texts.

  • Many believers think we are living in the end times due to the increase in natural disasters.
  • The preacher spoke about the end times and urged people to repent.

Examples of usage

  • The doomsday predictions caused widespread panic among the population.
  • Many religions have prophecies about doomsday and the end of the world.
Context #2 | Noun

doom or destruction

Doomsday can also refer to a sense of impending disaster or ruin, leading to a feeling of hopelessness or despair.

Synonyms

catastrophe, disaster, ruin.

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Word Description / Examples
doomsday

Use in discussions about the end of the world or final judgment, often with a sense of inevitability. It can also be used metaphorically for extreme negative predictions.

  • People have been talking about doomsday scenarios regarding climate change.
  • He felt like doomsday was upon him after losing his job.
catastrophe

Refers to a very bad event causing significant damage or suffering. It's often used in contexts like natural disasters, financial collapses, or large-scale tragedies.

  • The earthquake was a major catastrophe for the region.
  • If this company collapses, it would be a financial catastrophe.
disaster

Describes a sudden, unfortunate event causing great damage. It's used for both small and large-scale events, including personal troubles or natural calamities.

  • The flood was a disaster for the entire community.
  • The event turned into a disaster due to poor planning.
ruin

Refers to the state of being destroyed or severely damaged, often used for financial downfall, personal failure, or extensive physical damage. It has a negative connotation.

  • The economic crisis led to the ruin of many businesses.
  • He drank himself into ruin.

Examples of usage

  • The economic recession felt like a doomsday scenario for many businesses.
  • She had a doomsday outlook on life, always expecting the worst.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religion

  • Many religions talk about a final judgment day where good and bad are judged.
  • In Christianity, the Book of Revelation describes events leading to the doomsday.

Popular Culture

  • Doomsday scenarios are common in books, movies, and games, often showing how people survive disasters.
  • Films like 'Armageddon' and 'The Day After Tomorrow' spin tales around doomsday events.

Psychology

  • The fear of doomsday can create anxiety about future events, often called apocalyptic fears.
  • Some people prepare for potential disasters, leading to a phenomenon known as 'survivalism' and community building.

Science

  • Astrobiologists consider how Earth could face extinction due to cosmic events or climate change.
  • Research indicates that large-scale natural disasters, like asteroid impacts, could lead to widespread extinction.

Origin of 'doomsday'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'doomsday' comes from Old English 'domesdæg', which means 'day of judgment'.
  • It was first recorded in the 12th century, linking it to biblical ideas about the end of the world.

The term doomsday originated from the Old English word 'domes dæg', meaning 'judgment day'. It has been used throughout history in various religious and cultural contexts to describe the end of the world or a catastrophic event. The concept of doomsday has been a prevalent theme in literature, art, and mythology, reflecting humanity's fascination with the ultimate fate of the planet.


See also: doom, doomed.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,184 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.