Avalanche
/ˈæv.ə.læŋtʃ/noun
A sudden and rapid flow of snow, ice, and debris down a mountain.
Did you know?The term 'avalanche' traces back to a medieval French word, which was often associated with the terrifying forces of nature, invoking fear and awe in those who witnessed its destructive power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰel-
“to shine, to burn, to fall (as in light).”
Latin
Latin
avalanche
“to fall or tumble.”
Old French
Old French
avalanche
“to fall; a sudden fall of snow or earth.”
14th Century
Middle French
avalanche
“a sudden, large, and destructive slide of snow or earth.”
Modern English
English
avalanche
“a rapid flow of snow, ice, and debris down a mountainside.”