What does meteorically mean?
“Meteorically” is an adverb meaning with great speed, often in a way that is sudden, dramatic, and highly conspicuous. It is commonly used to describe a rapid rise to prominence, a dramatic change in circumstances, or an impressive acceleration in progress: a company may grow meteorically after a successful product launch, or a performer’s career may rise meteorically. The word can also be used more literally in relation to meteors or meteoric activity, although that sense is much less common. Its figurative use carries a note of spectacle and exceptional speed, so it is stronger and more colorful than simply saying that something happened “quickly.” The word derives from the same root as “meteor” and “meteoric,” originally connecting it with the speed and striking appearance of celestial bodies crossing the sky.
adverbIn a very rapid or sudden way, especially with dramatic change or success. It can also mean in a manner relating to meteors or meteoric activity.
- Very rapidly, suddenly, or spectacularly.
- In a manner relating to meteors or meteoric phenomena.
"Her fortunes changed meteorically after the breakthrough, transforming her career overnight."
"The small company grew meteorically after securing a major international contract."
"The meteorically produced dust cloud was visible from several miles away."
If a success arrives meteorically, it can change everything almost overnight.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meteorically come from?
The word comes from “meteor,” which ultimately derives from Greek meteōros, meaning “high in the sky.” The adjective “meteoric” developed the sense of relating to meteors and, figuratively, of moving rapidly and dramatically. The adverb “meteorically” was formed from that adjective with the suffix “-ically,” and its common figurative use reflects the striking rapid movement associated with a meteor.
Related word forms
How meteorically is actually used
In modern figurative use, “meteorically” usually suggests an unusually rapid and dramatic rise, transformation, or change. It is more emphatic than simply “quickly” and often implies a striking change in circumstances.
Easily confused with meteorically
“Meteorically” is an adverb describing how an action or change happens, while “meteoric” is usually an adjective describing something that is rapid, dramatic, or relating to meteors.