Havoc

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Havoc

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

HAV-uk  /ˈhævək/

Definition

As a noun: widespread destruction or disorder; chaos and disruption. As a verb (archaic): to lay waste. In the phrase 'cry havoc': to give the signal for pillaging; to cause chaos.

Plain meaning

Havoc means widespread destruction, chaos, and disorder. To wreak havoc is to cause widespread damage or disruption. The phrase cry havoc — from Shakespeare — means to signal the start of indiscriminate violence or destruction.

Register

Neutral and widely used. Havoc is an everyday word for chaos and destruction — less formal than devastation, more vivid than damage. Wreak havoc and play havoc are the most common fixed phrases.