Search Dictionary
Definition of anticlimax

anticlimax

/ˌæn.tiˈklaɪ.mæks/
an · ti · cli · max
Adverb:anticlimactically
•
Plural:anticlimaxes
•
Adjective:anticlimactic
JUMP TO:

anticlimax Lexical Profile

anticlimax Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A disappointing or mundane conclusion to an exciting, impressive, or highly anticipated series of events.

Example

"After weeks of intense buildup and speculation, the tournament's final match was a complete anticlimax."

2

A sudden transition in writing or speech from a significant or noble concept to a trivial or ludicrous one, often used for comedic or satirical effect.

Example

"The author masterfully employed anticlimax to deflate the pompous tone of the protagonist's speech."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for anticlimax
Antonyms
View all antonyms for anticlimax

• Rhymes for anticlimax

• Nearby Words

anticipatory
anticlimactic
anticlimactically
anticlimax
anticlockwise
anticolonial
anticommunism

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 18th century from the prefix 'anti-' (opposite) and 'climax' (ladder, peak). It was originally used as a rhetorical term to describe a sudden, often ludicrous descent from an impressive subject to an ordinary one.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Anticlimax. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/anticlimax
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.