Meltdown: meaning, definitions and examples

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meltdown

[ˈmɛltˌdaʊn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

nuclear power plants

A meltdown refers to a severe nuclear reactor accident that results in core damage from overheating. It can lead to the release of radioactive materials into the environment, posing serious health and environmental risks.

Synonyms

core meltdown, nuclear meltdown, reactor meltdown.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
meltdown	Commonly used in everyday language to describe an emotional collapse or a significant failure in any system. She had a complete meltdown when she found out she hadn't been accepted into the program. The financial markets experienced a major meltdown last year.
core meltdown	Specifically refers to a severe nuclear reactor accident where the reactor core is damaged due to overheating. The safety measures failed, leading to a core meltdown. The engineers are trained to handle a core meltdown situation.
nuclear meltdown	Refers to a severe nuclear reactor accident that involves nuclear fuel overheating and melting. Often used in contexts discussing nuclear power plants and their safety. The nuclear meltdown at Fukushima had devastating effects on the region. Preventing a nuclear meltdown is the highest priority of plant operators.
reactor meltdown	Describes a severe failure in a nuclear reactor where the reactor overheats and melts, leading to the release of radioactivity. Used mainly in technical discussions about nuclear reactors. Proper cooling systems can prevent a reactor meltdown. The team is assessing the risks of a potential reactor meltdown.

Examples of usage

The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 was a result of a meltdown at the nuclear power plant.
The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011 triggered concerns about the possibility of a meltdown.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

emotional breakdown

In a non-nuclear context, a meltdown can refer to an emotional breakdown or loss of control due to extreme stress or frustration. It is often associated with children or individuals struggling to cope with overwhelming emotions.

Synonyms

emotional breakdown, outburst, tantrum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
meltdown	In this context, it refers more to a sudden, uncontrollable emotional response, often used for children or in informal situations. The toddler had a meltdown in the middle of the store
emotional breakdown	Often used to describe a severe mental or emotional collapse usually after a long period of stress or pressure. This term is more formal and might be used in both clinical and informal conversations. She went through an emotional breakdown after losing her job
tantrum	Commonly used to describe a child’s explosive and usually uncontrollable anger or frustration. Often used informally and contextually for children. The child threw a tantrum when he didn't get any candy
outburst	Refers to a sudden release of strong emotion, usually anger. It often occurs unexpectedly and can be in various settings. He had an outburst of anger during the meeting

Examples of usage

After a long day at work, Sarah had a meltdown and burst into tears.
The toddler had a meltdown in the supermarket when his mother refused to buy him a toy.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term ‘meltdown’ originally referred to the overheating of a nuclear reactor, leading to a serious failure.
It became popular in the 1980s after the Three Mile Island accident in Pennsylvania, which raised awareness about nuclear safety.
Since then, 'meltdown' has evolved to describe emotional breakdowns or severe failure in various contexts.

Psychology

In psychology, a 'meltdown' often relates to overwhelming stress or anxiety, especially in individuals with autism.
It can manifest as an intense emotional response due to sensory overload, frustration, or feeling trapped.
Strategies for managing a meltdown include calming techniques and creating a safe space for expression.

Pop Culture

The concept of a meltdown is often depicted in films portraying characters experiencing extreme stress, evoking empathy.
Popular TV shows sometimes use the term humorously when a character overreacts to minor problems.
Songs and music genres, particularly in punk and emo, frequently reflect themes of emotional turmoil and meltdowns.

Science

A nuclear meltdown can lead to the release of radioactive materials, posing significant health and environmental risks.
Preventative measures, like using multiple cooling systems, are critical in avoiding a meltdown in nuclear facilities.
Understanding the consequences of a meltdown has led to stricter regulations in the nuclear industry worldwide.

Media and Communication

Social media has amplified the term, often used to describe public figures or celebrities when they show extreme reactions.
Crises or controversial events can result in public relations 'meltdowns' for companies, affecting their image.
'Meltdowns' in communication can stem from misunderstandings and the impact of online interactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "meltdown" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colapso

🇮🇳 पिघलना

🇩🇪 Zusammenbruch

🇮🇩 keruntuhan

🇺🇦 крах

🇵🇱 załamanie

🇯🇵 崩壊

🇫🇷 effondrement

🇪🇸 colapso

🇹🇷 çöküş

🇰🇷 붕괴

🇸🇦 انهيار

🇨🇿 kolaps

🇸🇰 kolaps

🇨🇳 崩溃

🇸🇮 propad

🇮🇸 hnignun

🇰🇿 құлдырау

🇬🇪 დარღვევა

🇦🇿 çöküş

🇲🇽 colapso

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,338, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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26335 stoma
26336 arthropod
26337 hermaphrodite
26338 meltdown
26339 persecutor
26340 immortals
26341 clod
...