E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Av’alanche (3 syl.)
means properly something which goes downwards (French, à val). The word is applied to a mass of snow mixed with earth, ice, and stones, which slips down a mountain side to the lower ground. Metaphorically, we speak of an “avalanche of applause,” an “avalanche of bouquets” showered on the stage, etc.
