Meaning & Definition of word "Downfall"
to
Downfall
/ˈdaʊn.fɔːl/
noun:
- 1. a sudden loss of power, prosperity, or status.
- Example: The politician's downfall was attributed to a series of scandals.
- 2. a fall in quality or condition.
- Example: The company's downfall began with poor management decisions.
- 3. a loss of happiness or benefit.
- Example: His downfall was the result of his inability to resist temptation.
- 4. the violent disintegration or ruination of something.
- Example: The downfall of the ancient civilization was marked by internal conflict.
- 5. a significant decline or setback.
- Example: The once-prominent actor experienced a dramatic downfall in his career after several flops.
Etymology
Middle English, combining 'down' and 'fall'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
the downfall of:
the cause of someone's failure or ruin
downfall comes after pride:
a warning that pride can lead to one's ruin
to be on the brink of downfall:
to be close to failure or disaster
Related Words
collapse:
a sudden failure of something that was strong
ruin:
the state of being destroyed or extremely damaged
failure:
lack of success in achieving something
Slang Meanings of downfall
Meaning: hit rock bottom
Example Sentence: After losing his job, he really hit rock bottom.
Meaning: crash and burn
Example Sentence: After her last business venture, it felt like she crashed and burned.