a mathematical theory that classifies surfaces according to their form
b.
the popular application of this theory to the explanation of abruptly changing phenomena, as by the discontinuity of a line on the topmost fold of a folded surface
catastrophe theory in American English
noun
Math
a theory, based on topology, for studying discontinuous processes and the mathematical models that describe them
Word origin
[1970–75]This word is first recorded in the period 1970–75. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: Heimlich maneuver, good old boy, relational database, stress test, urban legend
Examples of 'catastrophe theory' in a sentence
catastrophe theory
We could not have hoped for a more spectacular, if unintended, display of catastrophe theory.