phrase
Supernova
A brilliant peak immediately before collapse.
Origin
An exploding star โ the most luminous event in the observable universe, briefly outshining an entire galaxy. A massive star runs out of fuel, collapses under its own gravity, and rebounds catastrophically. What's left is a neutron star or black hole.
Modern usage
Used for athletes, artists, founders, and political figures whose peak performance immediately precedes their public undoing. 'A supernova career' is rarely a compliment.
Tags
peak
collapse
brilliance