Definition
A sudden, violent, and destructive event or disaster that causes great damage, suffering, or loss of life. It can refer to natural disasters, accidents, or metaphorically to any sudden, severe reversal of fortune or failure.
Example Usage
The flood was a catastrophe that displaced thousands of residents from their homes.
Origin
From Greek 'katastrophē,' combining 'kata' (down) and 'strophē' (turning), originally referring to the sudden downfall in Greek drama.
Fun Fact
In ancient Greek theater, the catastrophe was the final part of a tragedy where the protagonist's downfall was revealed, giving the word its dramatic historical roots.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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