Crumbled: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something breaks into small pieces, often due to fragility or age. Commonly applied to baked goods, buildings, or structures.

• The old bread crumbled when I tried to slice it.
• The ancient ruins crumbled over time.

A general term used when something is divided into parts abruptly or forcefully. Applicable in both physical and non-physical contexts.

• If you drop the vase, it will break.
• He needed a break after working for several hours.

Indicates grinding or reducing something to fine particles, usually with significant force. Often used in scientific or industrial contexts.

• The machine can pulverize large stones into powder.
• They needed to pulverize the spices for the recipe.

Used to describe something that breaks into small pieces, typically used for physical structures or materials.

• The old wall crumbled under the pressure
• The bread crumbled easily in his hands

Used when something is breaking into pieces or becoming completely ineffective. Can apply to both physical objects and abstract situations like plans or organizations.

• The chair fell apart when he sat on it
• Their friendship began to fall apart after the argument

Can refer to both physical and emotional situations. Often used for machinery that stops working or a person who is having an emotional moment.

• The car broke down on the highway
• She broke down in tears after hearing the bad news

Describes something breaking into very small parts, often used in a scientific or dramatic context. Can also imply complete destruction.

• The old paper disintegrated when touched
• The spaceship disintegrated upon reentry into the atmosphere