meteoric

[mee-tee-awr-ik, -or-]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or consisting of meteors.

2. resembling a meteor in transient brilliance, suddenness of appearance, swiftness, etc..

   his meteoric rise in politics.

3. of or coming from the atmosphere; meteorological.

meteoric

/ ˌmiːtɪˈɒrɪk /

adjective

1. of, formed by, or relating to meteors

2. like a meteor in brilliance, speed, or transience

3. rare,  of or relating to the weather; meteorological

Other Word Forms

• meteorically adverb
• nonmeteoric adjective
• nonmeteorically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of meteoric¹

From the Medieval Latin word meteōricus, dating back to 1625–35. See meteor, -ic

Example Sentences

Despite her meteoric rise, her former coaches say she has not changed.

From BBC

"They've had such a meteoric rise that it's okay to have a bump in the road."

From BBC

That was before its spectacular collapse under the weight of the huge debts that had powered its meteoric rise.

From BBC

After a career marked by a meteoric rise, legendary spats, a celebrated breakup and a globally acclaimed reunion, Oasis has certainly earned its rock-and-roll stripes, making the partnership with Adidas feel especially fitting.

From Los Angeles Times

Today’s American military isn’t open to the mercurial and meteoric talents of a Napoleon or a Caesar.

From Salon