More about pandemonium

• First recorded in 1660–70; see pan-, demon, -ium.
• After Pandaemonium, Milton’s name in Paradise Lost for the capital of hell:

Mean while the winged Haralds by command
Of Sovran power, with awful Ceremony
And Trumpets sound throughout the Host proclaim
A solemn Councel forthwith to be held
At Pandaemonium, the high Capital
Of Satan and his Peers

EXAMPLES OF PANDEMONIUM

• When the escaped lion roamed the zoo grounds, pandemonium ensued as visitors ran in every direction, screaming in fear.
• When the opposing team scored the winning goal in the last second, pandemonium broke loose among the fans, who stormed the field in a frenzy.

More about foppish

• First recorded in 1595–1605.
• Formed from fop + -ish¹.

EXAMPLES OF FOPPISH

• The actor’s foppish mannerisms in the play perfectly captured the essence of a vain nobleman.
• His foppish attire, complete with a silk cravat and tailored waistcoat, stood out at the casual gathering.

More about seismic

• First recorded in 1855–60. Formed from seism + -ic.
• Often in figurative use relating to a person or thing that has great impact or influence, as an earthquake does.

EXAMPLES OF SEISMIC

• Scientists installed new equipment to monitor seismic activity along the fault line.
• The fall of the regime brought about seismic shifts in the country’s political landscape.