n. [ L. cataracta, catarracles, a waterfall, Gr. &unr_;, &unr_;, fr. &unr_; to break down; in the passive, to fall or rush down (of tumors) to burst; kata` down + &unr_; to break. ] 1. A great fall of water over a precipice; a large waterfall. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Surg.) An opacity of the crystalline lens, or of its capsule, which prevents the passage of the rays of light and impairs or destroys the sight. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. (Mach.) A kind of hydraulic brake for regulating the action of pumping engines and other machines; -- sometimes called dashpot. [ 1913 Webster ]