# apotheosis

/əˌpɑθiˈoʊsəs/ (US) · /ɐpˌɒθiːˈəʊsɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/apotheosis
Updated: 2026-09-29

## Definition

the highest point in the development of something, or its most perfect example. It can also mean treating a person like a god.

For teachers: the elevation of a subject to divine status; the perfect form or highest point of a particular thing. Often used in literary or academic contexts to describe the culmination of a process.

## Examples

- The new stadium is the apotheosis of modern architecture.
- Many critics consider this symphony to be the apotheosis of the composer's career, representing his most refined musical ideas.
- The film serves as the apotheosis of the noir genre, blending cynical dialogue with a visual style that has never been surpassed by subsequent directors.

## Usage notes

- Often used with 'of' to describe the peak of a quality or career.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.