collapse

¹col·lapse

verb \kə-ˈlaps\

col·lapsedcol·laps·ing

Definition of COLLAPSE

intransitive verb

1

: to fall or shrink together abruptly and completely : fall into a jumbled or flattened mass through the force of external pressure <a blood vessel that collapsed>

2

: to break down in vital energy, stamina, or self-control through exhaustion or disease; especially : to fall helpless or unconscious

transitive verb

: to cause to collapse <collapsing an infected lung>

—col·laps·ibil·i·ty \-ˌlap-sə-ˈbil-ət-ē\ noun

—col·laps·ible \-ˈlap-sə-bəl\ adjective