calamity
|ca-lam-i-ty|
B2
/kəˈlæmɪti/
disaster or misfortune
Etymology
Etymology Information
'calamity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'calamitas,' where 'calam-' meant 'damage or loss.'
Historical Evolution
'calamitas' transformed into the Old French word 'calamité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'calamity' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'damage or loss,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a disaster or great misfortune.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an event causing great and often sudden damage or distress; a disaster.
The earthquake was a calamity that affected thousands of people.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39