ferocious
adj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //fɝˈoʊʃəs// UK //fəɹˈəʊʃəs// fe·ro·cious
adj. very violent, aggressive, or strong. You use it to describe a wild animal or a person's intense behavior.
adj. marked by extreme violence, cruelty, or intensity. Often describes predatory behavior or powerful natural forces.
The ferocious dog barked at every stranger.
A ferocious storm hit the coast last night, causing significant damage to the harbor.
The debate grew ferocious as both sides refused to compromise on their core principles, leading to a complete breakdown in communication.
Taken from Latin ferōx (“wild, bold, savage, fierce”) + -ous.
Usage
Often used to modify nouns related to conflict, weather, or predatory animals.