Pronunciation: [dɪlˈuːvi͡ən] (IPA) 
The word "diluvian", meaning "relating to or caused by a flood", follows a spelling pattern commonly encountered in English words with Latin roots. The "i" after "d" and "l" is pronounced as "y" (IPA symbol: j). The "u" after "i" is silent, with the "i" taking on a long sound (IPA symbol: aɪ). The final "an" is pronounced with a schwa sound (IPA symbol: ən). Therefore, the correct IPA transcription for "diluvian" is dɪˈluvyən.
Diluvian is an adjective derived from the word "diluvial" and is primarily used to describe something related to or occurring during a flood or great deluge. The term is often associated with the Biblical story of the Great Flood as described in the book of Genesis. However, diluvian can be applied to any event, period, or conditions characterised by an overwhelming or catastrophic amount of water.
In a more general sense, diluvian can be used to describe situations or circumstances that are marked by an excessive, overwhelming, or unstoppable nature, similar to a flood. This can include everything from describing a large amount of rain pouring down over a region in a short period of time, to an overwhelming influx of data or information in a particular field.
Furthermore, diluvian can also be applied to describe a person's behavior or character that is characterized by being overwhelming or excessive, such as someone who exudes an unusually high level of energy, or has a larger-than-life personality that commands attention.
Overall, diluvian is a versatile adjective that can describe anything related to a flood or deluge, as well as metaphorically referring to anything excessive, overwhelming, or powerful in a given context.
Pert. to the flood or deluge in the days of Noah; effected or produced by a deluge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "diluvian" is derived from the Latin word "diluvium", which in turn comes from the earlier Latin term "diluvius". Both of these Latin words are related to the noun "diluvium", meaning "a flood" or "deluge". The ultimate root of the term can be traced back to the Latin verb "diluere", which means "to wash away" or "to flood". This Latin verb is a combination of the prefix "di-" meaning "apart" or "thoroughly", and the verb "luere", which means "to wash" or "to bathe". Therefore, the etymology of "diluvian" revolves around the idea of a thorough or extensive washing or flooding.
