# climactic

/kɫaɪˈmæktɪk/ (US) · /klaɪmˈæktɪk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/climactic
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

happening at the most exciting or important moment of a story or event. It is the part where everything reaches its peak.

For teachers: occurring at the highest point of intensity or importance in a sequence of events. Often used to describe the final, decisive moment of a narrative or performance.

## Examples

- The final match was the climactic moment of the season.
- The film builds up to a climactic scene where the hero finally defeats the villain.
- The summit meeting was the climactic event of the decade, bringing together world leaders to sign a treaty that would end decades of regional conflict.

---

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.