downfall

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A sudden loss of power, success, or wealth.

   Many factors led to the downfall of the Roman Empire.

2. 2
   noun

   The thing that causes someone to fail or be ruined.

   His love of gambling proved to be his downfall.

From down- + fall. In this spelling, from 16th century; spelled as two words from 13th century.

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