meteoric

Meteoric is an adjective with two main senses. In its primary scientific sense, it relates to meteors—the luminous bodies seen when they enter Earth’s atmosphere—and to materials, events, or processes associated with them. In astronomy and planetary science, terms such as meteor, meteoroid, meteorite, and bolide are connected to the meteoric domain, and phrases like meteoritic iron describe iron-nickel metal derived from meteorites. The term can also describe phenomena occurring in the upper atmosphere or near-Earth space that are connected with meteors, such as meteor showers.

In a figurative sense, meteoric describes something characterized by rapid, dramatic, or sudden development or ascent. A meteoric rise to fame or a meteoric career conveys swift advancement, often noted for its speed rather than duration.

Origin and usage: meteoric comes from meteor, from the Greek meteoros meaning “high in the sky” or “in the heavens,” with the adjectival suffix -ic. The word has long been used in natural science and has since been adopted in metaphorical contexts in general language.

See also: Meteor, Meteorite, Meteoroid, Bolide.