# calamity

/kəˈɫæməti/ (US) · /kɐlˈæmɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/calamity
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a terrible event that causes a lot of damage or suffering. You use this word for serious disasters like a flood or a sudden personal tragedy.

For teachers: an event resulting in great loss, distress, or misfortune. Often implies a sudden and catastrophic change in circumstances.

## Examples

- The earthquake was a calamity for the small island nation.
- The sudden collapse of the bridge was a calamity that the local government struggled to manage.
- Historians argue that the sudden death of the heir was a national calamity that plunged the kingdom into decades of civil unrest and economic decline.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the singular with the indefinite article ('a calamity') or as an uncountable concept in literary contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.