train wreck n. a disaster or failure, especially one that is unstoppable or unavoidable; a disorganized, problematic, or chaotic person or thing; an incongruous situation. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
For rock climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, the word send has taken on a whole new meaning. You might cheer on a fellow snowboarder with Send it, bro! — and being sendy is a really great thing. Plus: a nostalgic trip to Willa...
In 1971, when a new public library opened in Troy, Michigan, famous authors and artists were invited to write letters to the city’s youngest readers, extolling the many benefits of libraries. One of the loveliest was from E.B. White, author of...
To “a disaster or failure” I would add, “especially one that, though foreseen, is difficult or impossible to avert.”
The second definition, above, relating to a person, was used in a recent episode of Mad Men. I was curious if this usage was around in the early 60s. I don’t recall the first time I heard it, but it seems more recent. Anyone know?