terrific
UK: təˈrɪfɪk | US: təˈrɪfɪk
adj. extremely good or enjoyable; excellent
adj. (archaic) causing terror; frightening
Originally, terrific meant "causing terror" (mid-17th century), aligning with its Latin root terrificus. By the late 18th century, it evolved to express intensity (e.g., "terrific speed"). By the 20th century, it shifted positively in colloquial use to mean "extremely good"—a linguistic phenomenon where negative words gain positive connotations (similar to awesome or sick).
The fireworks display was terrific, lighting up the entire sky.
She gave a terrific performance in the play.
(Archaic) The storm brought terrific winds that shook the village.
We had a terrific time at the beach yesterday.
His idea was so terrific that everyone applauded.