— downfallen , adj.
/down"fawl'/ , n.
1. descent to a lower position or standing; overthrow; ruin.
2. something causing ruin, failure, etc.: Liquor was his downfall.
3. a fall, as of rain, snow, or the like, often sudden or heavy.
4. a trap using a falling weight for killing, injuring, or imprisoning the prey.
[ 1250-1300; ME; see DOWN 1 , FALL ]