come a cropper

phrase

Definition of come a croppernext
1
as in collapse
to be unsuccessful To her disappointment, her plan came a cropper.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in fall short
to go wrong He tried to scale the fence but came a cropper.

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for come a cropper
  1. fall short
  2. fall flat
Phrase
  • Wilson and Valerie Preston, who co-chairs the planter committee, said the results fell short.
    — Josh Bergeron, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026
  • If either Hecklinski or Brown struggles, Iowa’s 2026 team might look similar to past versions that were competitive but fell short of College Football Playoff contention without an upper-level quarterback.
    — Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 24 July 2026
Definition of fall short
Phrase
  • Early mistakes, poorly attended initial events, or outreach strategies that fall flat may become part of a story about iteration and growth that shapes their personal statement or supplemental essays.
    — Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
  • Without a well-fitting T-shirt or tank, an ensemble can fall flat or look unfinished.
    — Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2026
Definition of fall flat
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.

Browse Nearby Words

come about
come a cropper
come across
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Come a cropper.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/come%20a%20cropper. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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