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.
While there’s no telling what the next two films might have in store for her character, knowing the traditionalism of ritualism of the village, there is perhaps some allusion to Arthur’s sister Morgana, who became his downfall. Richard Newby, HollywoodReporter, 23 June 2025 But Dehghani speculated that such a move would probably expand the war and end in Khamenei’s downfall, as a rival faction would then be motivated to seize the reins and seek peace with the United States. Arash Azizi, The Atlantic, 22 June 2025 Two centuries after his downfall, Napoleon remains both revered and controversial in France -- but above all, unavoidable. Arkansas Online, 20 June 2025 Your demise will be final, and your downfall will be total and complete. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 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 30 Jun. 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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