'cataclysm' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kataklysmos,' where 'kata-' meant 'down' and 'klyzein' meant 'to wash.'

'kataklysmos' transformed into the Latin word 'cataclysmus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cataclysm' through Middle French.

Initially, it meant 'a deluge or flood,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a large-scale and violent event.'