Downfall: meaning, definitions and examples

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downfall

 

[ ˈdaʊnˌfɔːl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

tragic outcome

A sudden and severe decline or deterioration, typically leading to ruin or destruction.

Synonyms

collapse, decline, destruction, ruin

Examples of usage

  • The downfall of the Roman Empire was caused by a combination of internal corruption and external invasions.
  • The stock market crash in 1929 marked the beginning of the economic downfall.
Context #2 | Noun

loss of power or prestige

A sudden loss of power, status, or prestige.

Synonyms

demise, disgrace, downgrade

Examples of usage

  • The scandal led to the politician's downfall and resignation from office.
  • After the CEO's involvement in the scandal, the company experienced a rapid downfall in reputation.

Translations

Translations of the word "downfall" in other languages:

🇵🇹 queda

🇮🇳 पतन

🇩🇪 Niedergang

🇮🇩 kejatuhan

🇺🇦 занепад

🇵🇱 upadek

🇯🇵 没落 (ぼつらく)

🇫🇷 chute

🇪🇸 caída

🇹🇷 düşüş

🇰🇷 몰락

🇸🇦 سقوط

🇨🇿 pád

🇸🇰 pád

🇨🇳 衰落

🇸🇮 padec

🇮🇸 hrap

🇰🇿 құлдырау

🇬🇪 დაცემა

🇦🇿 düşmə

🇲🇽 caída

Etymology

The word 'downfall' originated from Old English 'dune' (down) and 'feallan' (to fall), combining to form 'dune-fall'. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify a sudden decline or loss. The concept of downfall has been a recurring theme in literature and historical events, symbolizing the inevitable consequences of hubris or external factors beyond one's control.

See also: fall, fallacy, fallback, fallen, falling, fallout.