Just to wrap this up, I sent my question to Cecil and a member of the staff referred me to this web site:
Neat site, both informative and amusing, much like the SD…
My dictionary defines it thusly:
ter·ri·fic adj. 1. Causing terror or great fear; terrifying: a terrific wail. 2. Very bad or unpleasant; frightful: a terrific headache. 3. Very good or fine; splendid: a terrific tennis player. 4. Awesome; astounding: terrific speed.