I. cli ‧ max 1 /ˈklaɪmæks/ BrE AmE noun [countable usually singular]
[ Date: 1500-1600 ; Language: Latin ; Origin: Greek klimax 'ladder' , from klinein 'to lean' ]
1 . the most exciting or important part of a story or experience, which usually comes near the end ⇨ climactic
climax of
the climax of his naval career
climax to
a thrilling climax to the game
The festival reaches its climax with the traditional boat-burning ceremony.
2 . an ↑ orgasm
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COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ reach a climax
The film reaches its climax in the final scene.
▪ come to a climax
Things came to a climax with a large protest march on June 30th.
▪ build up to a climax
The music was getting louder and building up to a climax.
▪ near/approach a climax
One of the most important trials in recent history is nearing its climax today.
▪ move towards a climax
Political tensions were moving towards a climax.
▪ bring something to a climax
He scored again, bringing the game to a climax.
▪ mark the climax of something (=show that something has reached its best point)
This painting marked the climax of his career.
▪ a climax comes
The climax came when the President ordered an air strike on the capital.
■ adjectives
▪ a thrilling/dramatic/exciting climax
In this scene, the play reaches its dramatic climax.
▪ a fitting climax (=a very suitable one)
The concert was a very successful occasion and a fitting climax to the school year.
▪ a grand climax
Everyone was hoping that the peace talks would come to a grand climax.
▪ a sensational/spectacular climax
The match was a sensational climax to the season.
II. climax 2 BrE AmE verb
1 . [intransitive and transitive] if a situation, process, or story climaxes, it reaches its most important or exciting part
climax in/with
a series of special events climaxing with a spectacular fireworks show
2 . [intransitive] to have an ↑ orgasm