apogee

/ˈæ.pə.dʒi/

Group 29Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(noun)
The highest point in the development of something; the climax or culmination
GRE

Example in Context

The empire reached its apogee in the sixteenth century, after which a slow but irreversible decline set in over the following generations.

Synonyms

peaksummithigh point

Etymology

The point away from the earth — the highest point in a trajectory.

  • apo- (Greek) — away from
  • ge (Greek) — earth

Memory Aid

🚀Sounds like “a poji

An astronaut shouting 'A POJI!' as they reach the highest point of their space mission!

Visual Association

🏔️Standing on the peak of a mountain, arms raised in triumph at having reached the highest point.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “apogee” mean on the GRE?

apogee (noun) means “The highest point in the development of something; the climax or culmination”. The empire reached its apogee in the sixteenth century, after which a slow but irreversible decline set in over the following generations.

How to remember “apogee” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “apogee” sounds like “a poji”. An astronaut shouting 'A POJI!' as they reach the highest point of their space mission!

What are synonyms for “apogee”?

Common synonyms: peak, summit, high point.