fall to pieces
phrase
1
: to break into parts
The old map fell to pieces in my hands.
2
: to become ruined or destroyed
His life fell to pieces after his divorce.
3
: to become unable to control one's emotions
When he heard the bad news, he just fell to pieces.
Cite this Entry
“Fall to pieces.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fall%20to%20pieces. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
