downfall

[ 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.

downfall

/ ˈdaʊnˌfɔːl /

noun

1. a sudden loss of position, health, or reputation
2. a fall of rain, snow, etc, esp a sudden heavy one
3. another word for deadfall

Other Words From

• downfallen adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of downfall¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; down ¹ + fall

Example Sentences

But one of the downfalls certainly has been how divisive some of the language is.

From Los Angeles Times

Tufts of black lambswool and recycled nylon sprout up in contrast to the conventional ribbed beanie brim, an homage to the overactive crown chakra that is every Sagittarian’s secret weapon and downfall.

From Los Angeles Times

The limited-time deal, which has been around for 20 years, was cited as the restaurant’s source of downfall.

From Salon

“My downfall was hiring people with limited training and experience to run the business,” he said, “and retaining professionals who gave me very bad advice.”

From New York Times

I suppose that is the genius of boxing promotion, the understanding that people will pay to watch the downfall of the other.

From Salon

Related Words

• breakdown
• collapse
• debacle
• destruction
• deterioration
• overthrow
• undoing