To collapse
Example: The structure collapses under pressure
Definition
"To collapse" means to fall down or give way suddenly and completely, often due to a failure in support or structure. It describes the action of a building, object, or system breaking apart or falling under pressure or strain.
Etymology
The phrase "to collapse" comes from the Latin 'collapsus,' the past participle of 'collabi,' meaning 'to fall together' or 'to fall down.' Did you know? The root 'labi' means 'to slip' or 'to fall,' which vividly describes the sudden nature of collapse.
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"To collapse" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (B2) - set 5", containing 112 commonly used words.
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