Disaster/dɪˈzæstər/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Severity Disaster implies extreme harm that affects a large area or group of people. The flood was a disaster, leaving thousands without homes. Pro Tip 2/3Not Personal Disaster usually doesn't refer to small, personal misfortunes. Losing your keys is a hassle, not a disaster. Pro Tip 3/3News Context Disaster is often used in news reports about significant damage or loss. News headline: 'Disaster Strikes as Hurricane Hits Coast'.