Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Apocalypse”
The biblical word “Apocalypse” traces back to Greek (apokalypsis (ἀποκάλυψις)), where it meant “An uncovering, revealing, disclosure of things hidden”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A revelation or dramatic disclosure; the end of the world or a catastrophic event”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Greek
Greekapokalypsis (ἀποκάλυψις)An uncovering, revealing, disclosure of things hidden
Greek apokalypsis from apo- (away) + kalyptein (to cover, conceal). Originally meant divine revelation or unveiling. John's Revelation is called the Apokalypsis Ioannou.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinapocalypsisThe final revelation of God's plan; the end times and Last Judgment
Church fathers used apocalypsis to describe eschatological visions and the Book of Revelation. Medieval theology developed apocalyptic theology from this Greek concept.
Modern English
EnglishapocalypseA revelation or dramatic disclosure; the end of the world or a catastrophic event
From Old French apocalypse, Latin apocalypsis, Greek apokalypsis. In scripture, the Apocalypse (Book of Revelation) describes end-times events. Now broadly means any catastrophic end.