debacle (deɪˈbɑːkəll
;dɪ-)
Definitions
noun
- a sudden disastrous collapse or defeat, esp one involving a disorderly retreat; rout
- the breaking up of ice in a river during spring or summer, often causing flooding
- a violent rush of water carrying along debris
Word Origin
C19: from French débâcle, from Old French desbacler to unbolt, ultimately from Latin baculum rod, staffUsage examples
And after the last debacle there was no way any politician would agree to give him any training or developmental role.
, THE LAST TEMPTATION (2002)A few leaders snarled and blamed party president P. V. Narasimha Rao for the debacle.
India Today (1996)However the ISIS debacle has led to a huge loss of confidence.
Irish Times (2002)Manager Colm Coyle held his hands up after the Armagh debacle but does not wish to make a further acknowledgement of inadequacy tomorrow.
Belfast Telegraph (2004)Four thousand Hazaras were massacred in revenge for the debacle the previous year.
, KANDAHAR COCKNEY: A Tale of Two Worlds (2004)