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Collapse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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collapse

[kəˈlæps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

building

To collapse means to fall down suddenly because of pressure or damage. It can also refer to a sudden failure or breakdown of something.

Synonyms

break down, crumble, fail, fall down.

Examples of usage

  • The old building collapsed after the earthquake.
  • The chair collapsed under his weight.
  • The collapse of the company was due to poor management.
  • The collapse of the stock market led to widespread panic.
  • The collapse of the bridge was caused by structural defects.
Context #2 | Noun

economy

A collapse is a sudden and complete failure of something, such as an institution, business, or system. It can also refer to a drastic decline or breakdown.

Synonyms

breakdown, crash, decline, failure.

Examples of usage

  • The collapse of the housing market caused a recession.
  • The economic collapse led to widespread unemployment.
  • The collapse of the government resulted in chaos.
  • The collapse of the currency devastated the economy.
  • The collapse of the empire marked the end of an era.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, structures can collapse when they exceed their load-bearing capacity, leading to catastrophic failures.
  • Stars can collapse under their own gravity, forming black holes at the end of their lifecycle.
  • The phenomenon of 'structural collapse' can occur in various fields, from buildings to bridges, highlighting the importance of engineering.

Psychology

  • People may experience emotional collapse due to stress or trauma, characterized by feeling overwhelmed.
  • Psychological collapse can lead to a temporary inability to function normally, analogous to physical collapse.
  • Support systems play a vital role in preventing emotional collapse after challenging events.

Literature

  • The concept of collapse is often used in dystopian literature to explore themes of societal breakdown.
  • In narratives, characters or civilizations may face collapse, symbolizing loss and change.
  • Authors use collapse as a metaphor to discuss environmental and political issues, prompting readers to reflect on real-world implications.

Pop Culture

  • Films often depict collapse as a dramatic climax, like buildings falling in action movies.
  • Video games sometimes center around survival after a societal collapse, challenging players to navigate a new world.
  • Musicians have referenced themes of collapse in songs to express emotional or societal struggles.

Origin of 'collapse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'collapsus', which means 'fallen together'.
  • It was first used in English in the early 17th century.
  • Originally, it could refer both to physical and figurative falling.

The word 'collapse' originated from the Latin word 'collapsus', which is the past participle of 'collabi', meaning 'to fall together'. The term has been used since the 18th century to describe a sudden falling or breakdown of something under pressure or strain. Over time, 'collapse' has become widely used in various contexts to indicate a sudden and dramatic failure or decline.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,897, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.