What does the word calamity mean Meaning and Definition
What does the word calamity mean?
Pronunciation
/kæləˈmɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A calamity is a a sudden and severe misfortune, disaster, or tragedy that causes widespread damage or harm.
Example: The devastating hurricane that hit the coastal town was a calamity for its residents.
Examples
- The blackout that left millions without power was a calamity for the entire city.
- The devastating earthquake was a calamity for the region.
Synonyms
- Disaster
- Tragedy
- Catastrophe
Antonyms
- Good fortune
- Prosperity
- Happiness
Etymology
The word “calamity” originates from the Latin word “calamitas,” which means misfortune or disaster. It was first used in English in the 15th century to describe a sudden and severe misfortune.
Usage Notes
The word “calamity” is often used to describe a sudden and severe misfortune, but it can also be used to describe a series of unfortunate events. It is often used in formal language to express sympathy or concern.
Example: “The city has been hit by a series of calamities, including flooding and power outages.”
Cultural References
- In the Bible, the word “calamity” is used to describe the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt.
- In literature, the concept of calamity is often used to explore themes of suffering and redemption.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- A calamity waiting to happen
- A series of calamities
Related Words or Phrases
- Disaster
- Tragedy
- Catastrophe
- Emergency
Collocations
- Calamity strikes
- A calamity of epic proportions
Frequency of Use
The word “calamity” is not as commonly used as some other words, but it is still a widely recognized and accepted term in many contexts.
Example: “The city was hit by a calamity when a severe storm caused widespread damage.”
Common Misspellings
- Calamitee
- Calamityy
Additional Information
The word “calamity” is often used in a formal or literary context to describe a sudden and severe misfortune. It is not as commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is still a widely recognized and accepted term.
Example: “The city’s residents are still reeling from the calamity that hit them last month.”
In some contexts, the word “calamity” can also be used to describe a series of unfortunate events. This can be useful in situations where a single event is not enough to cause widespread harm.
Example: “The city has been hit by a series of calamities, including flooding and power outages.”
When using the word “calamity” in a formal or literary context, it is often used in conjunction with other words or phrases that describe the severity of the situation. This can help to convey the full extent of the misfortune.
Example: “The devastating earthquake was a calamity of epic proportions.”