collapse

²collapse

noun

Definition of COLLAPSE

1

a : a breakdown in vital energy, strength, or stamina b : a state of extreme prostration and physical depression (as from circulatory failure or great loss of body fluids) c : an airless state of all or part of a lung originating spontaneously or induced surgically

2

: the act or action of collapsing <the cutting of many tent ropes, the collapse of the canvas — Rudyard Kipling>

3

: a sudden failure : breakdown, ruin

4

: a sudden loss of force, value, or effect <the collapse of respect for ancient law and custom — L. S. B. Leakey>

Examples of COLLAPSE

1. The structure is in danger of collapse.
2. She was on the verge of collapse.
3. The country has endured civil war and economic collapse.

First Known Use of COLLAPSE

1801

Related to COLLAPSE

Synonyms: burnout, fatigue, exhaustion, frazzle, lassitude, prostration, tiredness, weariness

Antonyms: refreshment, rejuvenation, rejuvenescence, revitalization

Related Words: debilitation, debility, disablement, enervation, enfeeblement, faintness, feebleness, frailness, frailty, impotence, infirmity, weakness; overfatigue; languor, lethargy, listlessness; sluggishness, slumber, stupor, torpidity, torpor; apathy, inertia, passiveness, passivity

Near Antonyms: bounce, dash, drive, energy, ginger, go, liveliness, pep, punch, sap, snap, starch, verve, vigor, vim, vitality, zing, zip; might, muscle, potency, power, puissance, strength; briskness, jauntiness, spiritedness, sprightliness, vivaciousness, vivacity

see all synonyms and antonyms

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