devastating

[ dev-uh-stey-ting ]

adjective

1. tending or threatening to devastate:

   a devastating fire.

2. satirical, ironic, or caustic in an effective way:

   a devastating portrayal of society.

devastating

/ ˈdɛvəˌsteɪtɪŋ /

adjective

1. extremely effective in a destructive way

   a devastating report on urban deprivation

   a devastating war

Derived Forms

• ˈdevasˌtatingly, adverb

Other Words From

• devas·tating·ly adverb
• un·devas·tating adjective
• un·devas·tating·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of devastating¹

First recorded in 1625–35; devastat(e) + -ing ²

Example Sentences

At UN climate summits, their priorities are more money to help them deal with problems like eroding coastlines and devastating weather events.

From BBC

Several warnings and alerts are also in place across Wales, which saw serious disruption after devastating floods over the weekend.

From BBC

A statement from the school said the damage caused to the town had been "devastating".

From BBC

"It damaged flooring, a lot of appliances. It just had a very devastating effect within a quick turn of a few hours."

From BBC

Some leaseholders have opened up about the devastating effect of these costs on their lives - among them are cases of bankruptcy, pressure on relationships and mental health.

From BBC

Related Words

• calamitous
• destructive
• disastrous
• overwhelming