The word ‘Collapsing’ (Verb/Adjective) describes the process of falling down or failing completely, either physically, emotionally, structurally, or metaphorically. It’s often used to express breakdowns of buildings, systems, people, or plans due to stress, weakness, or instability.
Collapsing Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word ‘Collapsing’ including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meaning of Collapsing
‘Collapsing’ refers to the act of falling apart, crumbling, or ceasing to function. It may describe a physical structure falling down, a person fainting or losing strength, or a system breaking under pressure. It suggests both sudden and progressive failure.
Definition
Collapsing is the present participle of the verb collapse, meaning to fall down or fail suddenly and completely. It can also function adjectivally to describe something that is in the process of falling or failing.
Example: “The collapsing bridge was quickly evacuated.”
Etymology
The word comes from Latin collapsus, past participle of collabi meaning “to fall together,” from com- (“together”) + labi (“to slip, fall”). It entered English in the 18th century, initially used for physical structures and later extended to metaphorical uses.
Examples of Usage
- The ceiling is collapsing after years of neglect.
- He felt like his life was collapsing around him.
- The company is collapsing under financial pressure.
- After running a marathon, she was collapsing from exhaustion.
Synonyms
- Falling
- Crashing
- Crumbling
- Breaking down
- Disintegrating
- Imploding
- Toppling
- Failing
- Giving way
- Tumbling
Antonyms
- Outstanding
- Rising
- Strengthening
- Stabilizing
- Enduring
- Holding up
- Recovering
- Building
- Growing
- Resisting
FAQs about Collapsing
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Collapsing”
1. What does “collapsing” mean in daily conversation?
It typically means something is falling down or failing—like a person fainting or a structure giving way.
2. Can “collapsing” describe emotions?
Yes, it can describe a mental or emotional breakdown, such as someone “collapsing in grief” or “collapsing under pressure.”
3. Is collapsing always sudden?
Not necessarily. It can happen abruptly, like a roof falling, or gradually, like a failing economy.
4. Can “collapsing” be used figuratively?
Yes, people often use it figuratively to describe systems, relationships, health, or emotions breaking down.
5. What’s the difference between “falling” and “collapsing”?
“Falling” refers to movement downward, while “collapsing” suggests a breakdown or failure in structure or function.