havoc

hav-oc · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Widespread destruction or devastation.

  2. 2.

    Great confusion or disorder.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    wreak havoc — to cause widespread damage or destruction
  • •
    play havoc with — to create disorder or confusion in something
  • •
    cry havoc — (archaic) to give a signal for pillaging; to warn of disaster

Related words

Antonyms: calm, harmony, order, peace
See also: chaos, destruction, devastation, mayhem
Synonyms: chaos, destruction, devastation, mayhem, turmoil

Etymology

From Old French havot ("plundering, devastation"), possibly of Germanic origin. In medieval warfare, "havoc" was a signal for soldiers to seize plunder.