Débandade (en. Rout)

/debɑ̃dad/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A debacle is the disorderly and rapid flight of a group of people.
The debacle of the protesters surprised the police.
La débandade des manifestants a surpris la police.
A general disorder, particularly during an event or difficult situation.
After the announcement, there was a debacle in the streets.
Après l'annonce, il y a eu une débandade dans les rues.
In a military context, a disorganized retreat.
The debacle of the enemy troops allowed for a swift victory.
La débandade des troupes ennemies a permis une victoire rapide.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French débander, meaning to undo order, to free.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to fall into chaos
To find oneself in a chaotic or disordered situation.
tomber dans la débandade
to cause a debacle
To provoke disorder or a disorganized flight.
causer une débandade
to be in disarray
To be in a state of disorganization or disorder.
être en débandade

Related Words

debouch
Flight or retreat in disorder.
débande
rout
A situation where one is made unable to continue an action in an orderly manner.
déroute
save-yourself
A call for individual flight in case of danger.
sauve-qui-peut

Slang Meanings

Unexpected upheaval.
Everyone panicked; it was total mayhem.
Tout le monde a paniqué, c'était la débandade totale.
Sudden exit from a party.
At midnight, they made a dash from the bar.
À minuit, ils ont fait une débandade du bar.