Disastre vs. Disaster

archaic form of disaster

A disaster is a serious problem occurring over a short or long period of time that causes widespread human, material, economic or environmental loss which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources. Developing countries suffer the greatest costs when a disaster hits – more than 95% of all deaths caused by hazards occur in developing countries, and losses due to natural hazards are 20 times greater (as a percentage of GDP) in developing countries than in industrialized countries.

An occurrence causing widespread destruction and distress; a catastrophe.

A grave misfortune.

(Informal) A total failure

(Obsolete) An evil influence of a star or planet.

An unexpected natural or man-made catastrophe of substantial extent causing significant physical damage or destruction, loss of life or sometimes permanent change to the natural environment.

An unforeseen event causing great loss, upset or unpleasantness of whatever kind.

An unpropitious or baleful aspect of a planet or star; malevolent influence of a heavenly body; hence, an ill portent.

An adverse or unfortunate event, esp. a sudden and extraordinary misfortune; a calamity; a serious mishap.

To blast by the influence of a baleful star.

To bring harm upon; to injure.

a state of extreme (usually irremediable) ruin and misfortune;

an event resulting in great loss and misfortune;

an act that has disastrous consequences