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downfall

 - 2 dictionary results

down⋅fall

[doun-fawl]
–noun
1. descent to a lower position or standing; overthrow; ruin.
2. something causing ruin, failure, etc.: Liquor was his downfall.
3. a fall, as of rain, snow, or the like, often sudden or heavy.
4. a trap using a falling weight for killing, injuring, or imprisoning the prey.

Origin:
1250–1300; ME; see down 1 , fall


downfallen, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To downfall
down·fall   (doun'fôl')   
n.  
    1. A sudden loss of wealth, rank, reputation, or happiness; ruin.

    2. A cause of sudden ruin.

  1. A fall of rain or snow, especially a heavy or unexpected one.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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