SINCE 1828
dictionary
thesaurus

cataclasm

noun
Save Word
cat·​a·​clasm | \ ˈkatəˌklazəm \
plural -s

Definition of cataclasm

: a breaking down : disruption

Other Words from cataclasm

cataclasmic \ ¦⸗⸗¦klazmik \ adjective

History and Etymology for cataclasm

irregular (after Greek klasma fragment, from klan to break) from Greek kataklan to break down, from kata- cata- + klan to break

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Learn More About cataclasm

Dictionary Entries Near cataclasm

cataclasis

cataclasm

cataclastic

See More Nearby Entries 

Statistics for cataclasm

Cite this Entry

“Cataclasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cataclasm. Accessed 3 Oct. 2022.

Style: MLA
MLACheck Mark Icon ChicagoCheck Mark Icon APACheck Mark Icon Merriam-WebsterCheck Mark Icon

WORD OF THE DAY

languid

Listen to the pronunciation of languid

See Definitions and Examples »

Test Your Vocabulary

Commonly Confused Words Quiz

  • vector image of a face with thought expression
  • I went to the ______ store to buy a birthday card.
True or False

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Universal Daily Crossword

A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games