catastrophe
(noun)
noun
1. an event resulting in great loss and misfortune
Similar word(s): calamity, cataclysm, disaster, tragedy
Definition categories: event, misfortune
2. a state of extreme (usually irremediable) ruin and misfortune
- lack of funds has resulted in a catastrophe for our school system
Similar word(s): disaster
Definition categories: state, adversity, hardship
3. a sudden violent change in the earth's surface
Similar word(s): cataclysm
Definition categories: phenomenon