ˈdaʊnfɔːl fɔːl fɔl fɑl pɹɪˌsɪpɪˈteɪʃən ˈɹuː.ɪn failure that results in a loss of position or reputation a sudden decline in strength or number or importance the fall of the House of Hapsburg the falling to earth of any form of water (rain or snow or hail or sleet or mist)