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Catastrophe: meaning, definitions and examples

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catastrophe

 

[ kəˈtæstrəfi ]

Noun
Nature
Context #1 | Noun

natural disasters

A catastrophe is a sudden disaster or misfortune, often resulting in widespread damage or suffering. It can refer to events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or tsunamis.

Synonyms

calamity, disaster, tragedy

Examples of usage

  • The earthquake in Haiti was a catastrophic event that caused widespread destruction.
  • The tsunami in Japan was a catastrophe that left many people homeless.
  • The hurricane in New Orleans was a catastrophic natural disaster.
Context #2 | Noun

extreme failure

Catastrophe can also be used to describe a complete and utter failure or breakdown, often in a dramatic or unexpected manner.

Synonyms

debacle, failure, fiasco

Examples of usage

  • The project ended in catastrophe when the main investor pulled out.
  • The company faced a financial catastrophe after the stock market crash.
  • The team's performance was a catastrophe, resulting in their loss.

Translations

Translations of the word "catastrophe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catástrofe

🇮🇳 आपदा

🇩🇪 Katastrophe

🇮🇩 bencana

🇺🇦 катастрофа

🇵🇱 katastrofa

🇯🇵 大災害 (dai saigai)

🇫🇷 catastrophe

🇪🇸 catástrofe

🇹🇷 felaket

🇰🇷 재앙 (jaeang)

🇸🇦 كارثة (kāritha)

🇨🇿 katastrofa

🇸🇰 katastrofa

🇨🇳 灾难 (zāinàn)

🇸🇮 katastrofa

🇮🇸 hörmung

🇰🇿 апат

🇬🇪 კატასტროფა (katastropha)

🇦🇿 fəlakət

🇲🇽 catástrofe

Etymology

The word 'catastrophe' originated from the Greek word 'katastrophē', which means 'an overturning'. It was first used in English in the 16th century to describe a sudden and disastrous event. Over time, the term has come to encompass both natural disasters and extreme failures.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,696 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.