culminating

American  

[kuhl-muh-ney-ting] / ˈkʌl məˌneɪ tɪŋ /

adjective

1. being or nearing the highest point or final stage.

   The mountain, which rises to 1,125 meters, is the culminating point of the Luberon mountain range.

   All students are required to participate in a capstone course that serves as the culminating experience of the degree.

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Other Word Forms

• nonculminating adjective

Etymology

Origin of culminating

First recorded in 1660–70; culminat(e) ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Now Stafford walked Jessica through the recent developments in the investigation, culminating in the arrest and charge of a suspect more than 34 years after her mother’s murder.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

It rounded off a marathon qualification process that began in September 2023 and spanned six confederations before culminating in the high‑stakes Uefa and intercontinental play‑offs on 31 March.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Late-night host Conan O’Brien also amplified the persona through recurring skits, culminating in the comedic appearance by Norris himself on O’Brien’s show.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

A Hollywood ceremony set to feature music from "KPop Demon Hunters" and Conan O'Brien as host will feature several nail-biting reveals, culminating in the announcement of the year's best film, which remains anyone's guess.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

But the long-term trend has still been toward large, complex societies, culminating in states.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond