Climax

/ˈklaɪmæks/

nounIntermediateCommonLiterature

Definitions

1

The highest or most exciting point in the development of something; a culmination or peak.

/ˈklaɪmæks/

nounneutralIntermediate
Literature

The most intense, exciting, or important point of something

The climax of the story was when the detective finally caught the thief.

💡 Simply: Think of it as the most exciting part of a story or event—the peak of the action!

👶 For kids: The best, most exciting part!

More Examples

2

The concert reached its climax with a powerful guitar solo.

How It's Used

Literature

"The climax of the novel was the dramatic confrontation between the hero and the villain."

Film

"The climax of the movie was a breathtaking car chase."

From Late Latin *climax, from Greek klímax "ladder, staircase," from kleínein "to lean, slope."

The word 'climax' has been used in a literary sense since the 17th century.

Memory tip

Imagine a mountain; the climax is the summit.

climaxsclimacxclimaks

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written