How Do You Spell METEORIC?

Pronunciation: [mˌiːtɪˈɒɹɪk] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "meteoric" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced as /miːˈtɪərɪk/. The first sound, /m/, is a nasal consonant. It is followed by a long vowel sound, /iː/, which is pronounced as "ee." The next sound, /t/, is a voiceless alveolar stop consonant, followed by the diphthong /ɪər/. The last sound, /ɪk/, is a short vowel sound followed by a voiceless velar consonant. The word "meteoric" describes something that is rapidly ascending, which is fitting for the spectacular display of a meteor shower.

METEORIC Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "meteoric" is an adjective used to describe something that is quick, sudden, and dramatic in nature. It derives from the word "meteor," which refers to a bright streak of light that is seen in the night sky when a small celestial object, such as a meteoroid or an asteroid, enters the Earth's atmosphere and burns up due to friction. This phenomenon is known as a meteor shower.

    When applied metaphorically, "meteoric" implies a swift and impressive rise or progress, much like the streak of light produced by a falling meteor. It suggests a remarkable and often unexpected advancement or success that occurs in a short span of time, without much warning or preparation. For instance, one might say that a young entrepreneur has had a meteoric rise to fame and fortune if they have achieved tremendous success in their business in a very brief period.

    Moreover, "meteoric" conveys the fleeting nature of fame or accomplishment. Just as a meteor quickly disappears from the sky, the adjective signifies that the burst of success or attention is often short-lived, with potential for an equally rapid decline. It reflects a sense of transience or impermanence associated with rapid achievements or sudden bursts of popularity.

    In summary, "meteoric" defines a rapid, sudden, and remarkable rise or progress, evoking the image of a meteor streaking across the sky before vanishing.

  2. Pert. to meteors; of or belonging to the atmosphere; produced in or falling from the atmosphere; applied figuratively to any person or thing on account of brilliancy or irregularity, or both.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

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Etymology of METEORIC

The word "meteoric" comes from the Greek word "meteoros", which means "high in the air" or "something that floats in the sky". This word was derived from the Greek word "meteōron", which means "that which is suspended or hanging". The term "meteoric" was originally used to describe celestial phenomena like meteors or shooting stars, which appear to be moving rapidly in the sky. Over time, the term began to be used figuratively to describe anything that has a sudden and dazzling rise or success, similar to the swift movement of a shooting star.

Similar spelling words for METEORIC

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