Dis‐as″ter (?), n. [F. désastre; pref. dés- (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.
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.