Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

catastrophe

noun

/kəˈtæs.trə.fi/

Definition

A sudden and widespread disaster or significant event that causes great damage or distress.

Examples

The earthquake was a catastrophe that left the city in ruins.
Her unexpected resignation was a personal catastrophe that affected her entire family.
The oil spill turned into an environmental catastrophe, harming marine life for years.

Meaning

A catastrophe typically refers to an unexpected, major event that leads to severe consequences, often affecting large numbers of people or a significant area.