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Noun: downfall  'dawn,fol
  1. Failure that results in a loss of position or reputation
    "The scandal led to the politician's downfall";
    - ruin, ruination
     
  2. The falling to earth of any form of water (rain, snow, hail, sleet or mist)
    "Heavy downfall caused flooding in low-lying areas";
    - precipitation
     
  3. A sudden decline in strength, number or importance
    "the downfall of the House of Hapsburg";
    - fall, slide

Derived forms: downfalls

Type of: atmospheric condition, conditions, failure, weakening, weather, weather condition

Antonym: rise

Encyclopedia: Downfall