Meaning of the word catastrophe in English

What does catastrophe mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

catastrophe

US /kəˈtæs.trə.fi/

UK /kəˈtæs.trə.fi/

an event causing great and often sudden damage or suffering; a disaster

Example:

•

The earthquake was a natural catastrophe.

•

The financial crisis was an economic catastrophe for many families.

Synonym:

disaster calamity tragedy cataclysm debacle

a sudden and utter failure

Example:

•

His attempt to fix the car turned into a complete catastrophe.

•

The party was a social catastrophe; no one had fun.

Synonym:

failure fiasco mess ruin disaster

Related Word:

catastrophic catastrophe theory