terrific

[tuh-rif-ik]

adjective

1. extraordinarily great or intense.

   terrific speed.

   Synonyms: remarkable, extraordinary

2. extremely good; wonderful.

   a terrific vacation.

   Synonyms: excellent, fine, remarkable, extraordinary

3. causing terror; terrifying.

terrific

/ təˈrɪfɪk /

adjective

1. very great or intense

   a terrific noise

2. informal,  very good; excellent

   a terrific singer

3. very frightening

Other Word Forms

• terrifically adverb
• unterrific adjective
• unterrifically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of terrific¹

1660–70; < Latin terrificus frightening, equivalent to terr ( ēre ) to frighten + -i- -i- + -ficus -fic

Word History and Origins

Origin of terrific¹

C17: from Latin terrificus, from terrēre to frighten; see _-fic

Example Sentences

Opening with his take on the UK's economy, Dimon said he felt Rachel Reeves was doing a "terrific job", and he felt optimistic about some of the government's attempts to boost innovation and cut regulation.

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His terrific dribbling ability is unparalleled in the league so far this year, while his agility and creativity make him a constant threat going forward.

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Kellyman is terrific opposite Squibb, but this unconventional friendship tale is the kind of slight human interest story that slips from your consciousness almost as soon as it has made its brief impression.

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"He is a terrific passer, but his great body movement allows him to let the ball run across him, then he has that great athleticism, which allows him to glide past people effortlessly."

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And are they worth this terrific spending spree?

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Related Words

• amazing 
• breathtaking 
• excellent 
• fabulous 
• fantastic 
• great 
• hot 
• magnificent 
• marvelous 
• outstanding 
• sensational 
• superb