downfall

noun

down·​fall ˈdau̇n-ˌfȯl How to pronounce downfall (audio)
1
a
: a sudden fall (as from power)
b
: a fall (as of snow or rain) especially when sudden or heavy
2
: something that causes a downfall (as of a person)
gambling was his downfall
downfallen adjective

Examples of downfall in a Sentence

Their downfall was the result of several bad decisions. Bad decision-making was their downfall.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What looks like productivity is often the downfall of those who refuse to delegate. Charles Fallon, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025 Since then, numerous videos have been circulating on social media discussing the downfall and debating the comeback of waterbeds. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2025 Notably, his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, whose landmark lawsuit in November 2023 initiated the mogul’s downfall, will testify under her real name as Victim-1. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 2 May 2025 More news: Lakers' Luka Doncic Shredded Over Major Postseason Struggle Nevertheless, the Lakers ran out of gas in the first round of the playoffs against a scrappy Timberwolves team, and their lack of a big man proved to be their downfall. Noah Camras, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for downfall

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of downfall was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Downfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downfall. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

downfall

noun
down·​fall ˈdau̇n-ˌfȯl How to pronounce downfall (audio)
1
: fall sense 2c
especially : a sudden or heavy fall (as of rain)
2
: a fall (as from power, happiness, or high position) or a cause of such a fall
downfallen adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on downfall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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