noun

the most intense, exciting, or important point of something; the culmination.

she was nearing the climax of her speech

peak,pinnacle,height,high point,highest point,summit,top,acme,zenith,apex,apogee,apotheosis,culmination,crowning point,crown,crest,crescendo,finale,denouement,highlight,high spot,best part,high water mark

verb

culminate in an exciting or impressive event; reach a climax.

the day climaxed with a gala concert

culminate,peak,come to a climax,reach a pinnacle,come to a crescendo,result,end,come to a head