When the snow froze over into ice, it caused quite the catastrophe for the parking lot. The ice was so heavy, it caused the branches to break from the trees and onto the parked cars. In addition to the broken windshields, the floor to the lot was covered in debris and other particles. This was abnormal weather for this time of the year.

Question

Using your knowledge of Greek and Latin roots, what is the meaning of the word catastrophe in the passage above?
A.
Heaviness
B.
Insurance
C.
A turn for the worst
D.
Glass

Answer 1

C. A turn for the worst

The word "catastrophe" comes from the Greek word "katastrophḗ," which means a turning downwards or overturning. In the passage, the catastrophe in the parking lot refers to a sudden and disastrous event that resulted in damage to the cars and the area.