1. a sudden disaster that causes great damage or suffering
2. a complete failure or fiasco
Usage: informal
3. the final part of a play, especially a tragedy, in which the plot is resolved
Usage: literary

Examples

• The earthquake was a catastrophe that destroyed thousands of homes.
• Environmental scientists warn of climate catastrophe if emissions continue rising.
• The dinner party turned into a complete catastrophe when the kitchen caught fire.
• His first attempt at public speaking was a catastrophe.
• The hurricane caused a humanitarian catastrophe in the coastal region.
• The company’s new product launch was such a catastrophe that sales plummeted.
• In Shakespeare’s tragedies, the catastrophe often involves the death of the main character.