GRE Word List

CATASTROPHE

a momentous tragic event ranging from extreme misfortune to utter overthrow or ruin

The meaning of the word catastrophe is a momentous tragic event ranging from extreme misfortune to utter overthrow or ruin.

Random words

WordMeaning
barba medieval cloth headdress passing over or under the chin and covering the neck
factiona party or group (as within a government) that is often contentious or self-seeking : clique
hermeticof or relating to the mystical and alchemical writings or teachings arising in the first three centuries a.d.
presumptuousoverstepping due bounds (as of propriety or courtesy) : taking liberties
gallowsa frame usually of two upright posts and a transverse beam from which criminals are hanged
perditioneternal damnation
somnambulistan abnormal condition of sleep in which motor acts (such as walking) are performed
pathetichaving a capacity to move one to either compassionate or contemptuous pity
breadthdistance from side to side : width
temporizeto act to suit the time or occasion : yield to current or dominant opinion