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- pronunciation:
- k
tae
str
fi
- features:
- Word Combinations (noun), Word History, Word Explorer, Word Parts
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition 1: |
a calamity with widespread effects; disaster.
Floods and earthquakes represent catastrophes not only for humans but for all forms of life.
- synonyms:
- calamity, cataclysm, disaster
- similar words:
- debacle, downfall, ruin, tragedy
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| definition 2: |
a disastrous conclusion or ending.
A pleasant drive in the country ended in catastrophe when a drunk driver slammed into their car.- synonyms:
- bitter end
- similar words:
- aftermath, casualty, debacle, failure, flop, ruin, ruination, tragedy, wreck
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| definition 3: |
the aftermath of the climax in a drama, esp. classical Greek tragedy; denouement.
- synonyms:
- denouement
- similar words:
- aftermath, conclusion, consummation, resolution
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| related words: |
adversity, blow, cataclysm, collapse, misfortune |
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| derivations: |
catastrophic (adj.), catastrophically (adv.) |
Catastrophe is from a Greek word that means "overturning" or complete change. It referred to the ending of a play, or the outcome of certain events. The ending could be either happy or tragic. "Catastrophe" is now mostly used for a tragic event.
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