catastrophe

noun

1. an event resulting in great loss and misfortune

   noun.event

   Synonyms calamity cataclysm disaster tragedy

   Source: WordNet 3.0

2. a state of extreme (usually irremediable) ruin and misfortune

   noun.state

   Examples

   Lack of funds has resulted in a catastrophe for our school system.

   Synonyms disaster

   Source: WordNet 3.0

3. a sudden violent change in the earth's surface

   noun.phenomenon

   Synonyms cataclysm

   Source: WordNet 3.0

4. An event producing a subversion of the order or system of things; a final event, usually of a calamitous or disastrous nature; hence, sudden calamity; great misfortune.

   noun

   Source: webster1913