[doun-fawl] 
| 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. |
| down·fall·en (doun'fô'lən) adj. Fallen, as from high position; ruined. |
