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crumbly

adjective

crum·​bly ˈkrəm-b(ə-)lē How to pronounce crumbly (audio)
crumblier; crumbliest
: easily crumbled : friable
crumbly soil
crumbliness noun

Examples of crumbly in a Sentence

a crumbly shortbread cookie
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The cornbread base gives this version of dressing a tender, slightly crumbly texture with just a touch of sweetness that compliments the pineapple. Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2025 However, many found the finished dish too dry and crumbly. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2025 But the results were papering over some crumbly performances. Carl Anka, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025 Unlike the crumbly texture of an Oreo (from which the Exploremores take clear inspiration), the first bite delivered a pleasingly soft and slightly chewy texture, along with a subtle hint of marshmallow. Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for crumbly

Word History

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crumbly was in 1523

Cite this Entry

“Crumbly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crumbly. Accessed 26 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

crumbly

adjective
crum·​bly -b(ə-)lē How to pronounce crumbly (audio)
crumblier; crumbliest
: easily crumbled

More from Merriam-Webster on crumbly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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