break or fall apart into small fragments, especially over a period of time as part of a process of deterioration, cause something to break or fall apart into small fragments

crumble to dust, crumble under pressure, crumble to pieces

Formal and Informal Expressions of crumble

In different contexts, you can replace 'crumble' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'disintegrate, deteriorate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'fall apart, break down' is a commonplace synonym.

crumble: Explore its Definition & Usage

crumble Definition

1break or fall apart into small fragments, especially over a period of time as part of a process of deterioration
2cause something to break or fall apart into small fragments

Using crumble: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "crumble" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The old castle is crumbling away.
Example
The cake crumbled in my hands.
Example
The company's profits crumbled due to poor management.
Example
Her confidence crumbled after the criticism.

crumble Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for crumble

Antonyms for crumble

Phrases with crumble

crumble to dust
to disintegrate completely
Example
The ancient manuscript crumbled to dust when touched.
crumble under pressure
to lose one's composure or confidence when faced with stress or difficulty
Example
He crumbled under pressure during the final exam.
crumble to pieces
to break or fall apart into small fragments
Example
The old building crumbled to pieces during the earthquake.

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Summary: crumble in Brief

To 'crumble' [ˈkrʌmbl] means to break or fall apart into small fragments, often as part of a process of deterioration. It can refer to physical objects like buildings or food, as well as abstract concepts like confidence or profits. Phrases like 'crumble to dust' and 'crumble under pressure' add nuance to the term.