apotheosis
UK: əˌpɒθiˈəʊsɪs | US: əˌpɑːθiˈoʊsɪs
n. the highest point in the development of something; culmination or climax
n. the elevation of someone to divine status; deification
apotheosis = apo<away, from> + theo<god> + sis<noun suffix>
- apo (Greek: "away from" or "off")
- theo (Greek: "god")
- sis (Greek noun suffix indicating action or process)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Greek apotheōsis ("deification"), the word combines apo- (suggesting transformation) and theos ("god"). Originally used in ancient Greek and Roman contexts to describe the ceremonial elevation of rulers or heroes to divine status, it later evolved metaphorically in English to signify the pinnacle of achievement or idealized perfection. The morphemes reflect a literal "rising to godhood," preserved in both historical and modern figurative usage.
The novel’s final chapter was the apotheosis of the author’s literary genius.
Ancient emperors often sought apotheosis to legitimize their rule.
Her performance in the ballet was hailed as the apotheosis of grace and skill.
The skyscraper’s design represents the apotheosis of modern architecture.
Critics called the film’s climax an apotheosis of cinematic storytelling.