collapse

noun

1. an abrupt failure of function or complete physical exhaustion

Similar word(s): prostration

Definition categories: state, illness, malady, sickness, unwellness

2. 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

Definition categories: event, happening, occurrence, occurrent

3. the act of throwing yourself down

Similar word(s): flop

Definition categories: act, descent

4. a sudden large decline of business or the prices of stocks (especially one that causes additional failures)

Similar word(s): crash

Definition categories: event, happening, occurrence, occurrent

verb

1. break down, literally or metaphorically

- The wall collapsed

- The business collapsed

- The roof collapsed

Similar word(s): break, founder, give

Definition categories: motion, change

2. collapse due to fatigue, an illness, or a sudden attack

Definition categories: body, get, have, suffer, sustain

3. fold or close up

- collapse the music stand

Definition categories: motion, fold

4. fall apart

Similar word(s): crumble, crumple, tumble

Definition categories: motion

5. cause to burst

Similar word(s): burst

Definition categories: motion

6. suffer a nervous breakdown

Similar word(s): crack

Definition categories: emotion, get, have, suffer, sustain

7. lose significance, effectiveness, or value

- The school system is collapsing

- The stock market collapsed

Definition categories: change, weaken