climax
UK: ˈklaɪ.mæks | US: ˈklaɪ.mæks
n. the most intense or highest point of something, especially in a dramatic or progressive series
n. (in rhetoric) a figure of speech where ideas are arranged in ascending order of importance
n. (ecology) the final stage of ecological succession
The word "climax" originated in Greek as klimax, meaning "ladder" or "staircase," symbolizing upward progression. It entered English via Latin, where it was used in rhetoric to describe a sequence of ascending intensity. By the 18th century, its meaning expanded to denote the peak of any process, retaining the core idea of reaching the "greatest" (max) point.
The movie's climax left the audience in awe.
His speech built to a powerful climax.
The ecosystem reached its climax after decades of succession.
The novel’s plot twists lead to an unexpected climax.
In classical rhetoric, climax emphasizes gradual escalation.