Disaster \Dis*as"ter\, n. [F. d['e]sastre; pref. d['e]s- (L.
dis-) + astre star, fr. L. astrum; a word of astrological
origin. See Aster, Astral, Star.]
1. An unpropitious or baleful aspect of a planet or star;
malevolent influence of a heavenly body; hence, an ill
portent. [Obs.]
Disasters in the sun. --Shak.
2. An adverse or unfortunate event, esp. a sudden and
extraordinary misfortune; a calamity; a serious mishap.
But noble souls, through dust and heat, Rise from
disaster and defeat The stronger. --Longfellow.
Syn: Calamity; misfortune; mishap; mischance; visitation;
misadventure; ill luck. See Calamity.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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