Synonyms for

Crumble

Verb / ˈkrʌmbʌl / Another word for crumble — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to break or fall apart into small pieces

Synonyms & similar words

collapse tumble fallapart breakdown dilapidate crumple decay disintegrate fragment decay deteriorate decompose disperse scatter pulverize powder smash splinter shatter collapse tumble crack

Synonyms by register

Formal

disintegrate decompose deteriorate

Informal

fall apart break down go to pieces

Literary

dissolve vanish shatter

Antonyms

solidify strengthen cohere unite consolidate reinforce

Common collocations

  • crumble to dust
  • crumble away
  • crumble into pieces
  • crumble under pressure
  • crumble the cheese
  • crumble the cookie

Word family

noun crumble
verb crumble
adjective crumbly

Usage note

While 'crumble' can refer to physical disintegration, it's also used metaphorically for things like empires or morale collapsing. Be mindful of context when using it.

Example sentences

  1. The old building started to crumble after the earthquake.
  2. If you crumble the cookies, you can use them as a crust for the cheesecake.
  3. The sandcastle will crumble if you touch it.
  4. He tried to crumble the bread into small pieces for the birds.
  5. The cookie will crumble if you don't eat it carefully.

Quotes

  • Dreams are fragile things...they crumble like cookie crumbs. - Neil Gaiman
  • Our bodies are as frail as wings, you know. We're all just angels who haven't yet learned how to fly. We soar a little bit, and then our wings crumble. - Colleen Hoover
  • The future is like a giant crumble, and it's our job to sprinkle the sugar on top. - Vicki Myron

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