1. 1. A sudden loss of wealth, rank, reputation, or happiness; ruin.
   2. A cause of sudden ruin.
2. A fall of rain or snow, especially a heavy or unexpected one.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.