Collapsing: meaning, definitions and examples
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collapsing
[ kəˈlæpsɪŋ ]
physical structure
Collapsing refers to the sudden falling down or breaking apart of a structure, often due to a failure to support weight or withstand pressure. This can apply to buildings, infrastructure, or other physical forms. The term can also be metaphorically used to describe a sudden failure of a plan or system. It indicates a complete loss of stability and can result in significant damage or loss.
Synonyms
caving in, crumbling, disintegrating, falling apart, falling down.
Examples of usage
- The old bridge is collapsing due to lack of maintenance.
- During the earthquake, many buildings were collapsing.
- His health began collapsing under the stress of work.
- The company's financial model is collapsing.
- The tent collapsed under the weight of the snow.
emotional state
In an emotional context, collapsing often refers to someone who suddenly loses their composure or strength, either mentally or emotionally. This can happen in response to overwhelming stress, anxiety, or trauma. It signifies a moment where a person can no longer maintain their usual behavior and may show visible signs of distress. Such collapses may require support or intervention.
Synonyms
breaking down, crumbling, failing, fainting, yielding.
Examples of usage
- She felt like she was collapsing under the pressure of expectations.
- After hearing the news, he collapsed into tears.
- The stress of the job caused him to collapse emotionally.
- They collapsed in exhaustion after the long journey.
- She was so overwhelmed that she felt she was about to collapse.
Translations
Translations of the word "collapsing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 colapsando
🇮🇳 सड़कन
🇩🇪 zusammenbrechend
🇮🇩 runtuh
🇺🇦 обвалення
🇵🇱 zapadający się
🇯🇵 崩壊する
🇫🇷 s'effondrant
🇪🇸 colapsando
🇹🇷 çökmekte
🇰🇷 붕괴하는
🇸🇦 انهار
🇨🇿 kolabující
🇸🇰 kolabujúci
🇨🇳 崩溃
🇸🇮 kolapsirajoč
🇮🇸 hrunandi
🇰🇿 құлауға
🇬🇪 გადმოვარდნა
🇦🇿 çökmək
🇲🇽 colapsando
Etymology
The word 'collapse' originates from the Latin verb 'collapsare', which derives from 'collabi', meaning 'to fall together'. This Latin root combines 'com-' meaning 'together' and 'labi' meaning 'to fall'. The term was assimilated into Old French before entering the English language in the 17th century. Initially used in a literal sense to describe physical structures failing, it gradually gained metaphorical implications, especially in the context of systems, plans, and emotional states. Over time, 'collapsing' has become synonymous with not just physical failure but also emotional breakdowns and systemic failures in various fields. Its usage in both contexts highlights the fragility and fluidity of stability in multiple domains, be it architecture, mental health, or economics.