Collapse meaning

What does “collapse” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“collapse” is a noun and verb with 11 meanings. Its most common meaning is: an abrupt failure of function or complete physical exhaustion.

collapse

an abrupt failure of function or complete physical exhaustion
“the commander's prostration demoralized his men”
Synonymsprostration
a natural event caused by something suddenly falling down or caving in
“the roof is in danger of collapse”
“the collapse of the old star under its own gravity”
the act of throwing yourself down
“he landed on the bed with a great flop”
Synonymsflop
a sudden large decline of business or the prices of stocks (especially one that causes additional failures)
Synonymscrash

break down, literally or metaphorically
“The wall collapsed”
“The business collapsed”
Synonymsfall in cave in give give way break founder
collapse due to fatigue, an illness, or a sudden attack
Synonymsbreak down
fold or close up
“fold up your umbrella”
“collapse the music stand”
fall apart
“the building crumbled after the explosion”
“Negotiations broke down”
Synonymscrumble crumple tumble break down
cause to burst
“The ice broke the pipe”
Synonymsburst
suffer a nervous breakdown
Synonymscrack up crack crock up break up
lose significance, effectiveness, or value
“The school system is collapsing”
“The stock market collapsed”

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University