Anticlimactic

/ˌæntɪklaɪˈmæktɪk/ adjective

Less exciting or impressive than expected; a disappointing ending that doesn't match the buildup or anticipation.

From anti- (against) + climactic (from climax, ultimate point). Coined in 19th century to describe literary and narrative devices where expectations fail to materialize.

📖 Full word page — etymology, 47 translations, audio 🔑 Get Free API Key — 50 lookups/day 📚 Read the Docs — integrate Word Orb