De*ba"cle (?), n. [F. débacle, fr. débacler to unbar, break loose; pref. dé- (prob. = L. dis) + bacler to bolt, fr. L. baculum a stick.] (Geol.)

A breaking or bursting forth; a violent rush or flood of waters which breaks down opposing barriers, and hurls forward and disperses blocks of stone and other débris.

 

© Webster 1913


De*ba"cle (?), n.

A sudden breaking up or breaking loose; a violent dispersion or disruption; impetuous rush; outburst.

 

© Webster 1913