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avalanche
/ˈævəlæntʃ/
mass of snow sliding down a mountain
The hikers were warned about the risk of avalanches in the Alps.
The warning highlights the danger of large snow slides in the mountain region.
technical
A large mass of snow, ice, and rocks sliding rapidly down a mountainside.
Geologists study the conditions that trigger avalanches in the Rockies.
Scientists analyze factors like snowpack and weather to predict snow slides.
Commonly used in winter sports and mountain safety contexts.
figurative
A sudden overwhelming amount of something.
After the announcement, the CEO received an avalanche of complaints.
The leader faced an immediate surge of negative feedback.
Often used metaphorically to describe an uncontrollable flood of messages, tasks, or emotions.
Collocations
avalanche dangerrisk of snow slidesavalanche controlmeasures to prevent snow slidesavalanche victimperson caught in a snow slide
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish literal vs. figurative
Use 'avalanche' literally for snow slides (e.g., 'avalanche rescue dogs') and figuratively for overwhelming quantities (e.g., 'an avalanche of emails').
Gold Rule
Context matters
Always check if 'avalanche' refers to snow (geology) or a metaphorical surge (e.g., emails, complaints).
Word Origin
From French *avalanche*, derived from *avaler* ('to descend'), from Late Latin *avallare* ('to descend'), possibly of Celtic origin.
Usage Notes
In geology, 'avalanche' specifically refers to snow, while 'landslide' involves earth and debris. Figurative use implies sudden, overwhelming force.
Word Breakdown
avalanche
snow slide (literal) or overwhelming quantity (figurative)
rootEnglish Dictionary