# doomsday

/ˈdumzˌdeɪ/ (US) · /dˈuːmsdeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/doomsday
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the end of the world or a time of terrible destruction. People often use it to talk about a future event that will cause everything to fail.

For teachers: the final day of the world's existence; a time of catastrophic destruction or ultimate judgment. Often used metaphorically to describe a predicted moment of total failure or collapse.

## Examples

- Some people prepare for doomsday by storing extra food.
- Environmental scientists warned that ignoring the climate crisis could lead to a doomsday scenario for coastal cities.
- The novel explores the psychological toll on a small community as they await a predicted doomsday that never actually arrives.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'doomsday clock' or 'doomsday scenario'.

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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.