Aftermath
/ˈæftəmæθ/
Definitions
The results or effects of a significant happening, often emphasizing the negative consequences.
/ˈæftəmæθ/
The result or consequence of an important event, especially a bad or unpleasant one.
The aftermath of the accident included a long investigation and increased safety measures.
💡 Simply: The things that happen after something important, especially something bad.
More Examples
Cleanup crews worked tirelessly in the aftermath of the storm.
How It's Used
"The aftermath of the war left the town in ruins."
"The financial crisis had a catastrophic aftermath, affecting millions of people worldwide."
Idioms & expressions
in the aftermath of
Following an event, especially a significant or noteworthy one.
"In the aftermath of the election, there were numerous requests for policy changes."
The word 'aftermath' comes from the Old English 'æftermǣth', which literally means 'after-growth'. It originally referred to the grass that grew after hay had been harvested and later came to mean the consequences of an event.
In historical texts, 'aftermath' has been used to describe the long-term effects of wars, harvests, and other events, emphasizing the duration and impact of such occurrences.
Memory tip
Think of it as 'after-growth' in a metaphorical sense, like plants growing from scorched earth.
Word Origin
"After-growth, referring to the grass that grows after hay has been harvested."