n. [ L. cataclysmos, Gr. kataklysmo`s, from &unr_; to dash over, inundate; kata` downward, against + &unr_; to wash or dash over: cf. F. cataclysme. ] 1. An extensive overflow or sweeping flood of water; a deluge. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Geol.) Any violent catastrophe, involving sudden and extensive changes of the earth's surface. [ 1913 Webster ]