crumbling
UK: ˈkrʌmblɪŋ | US: ˈkrʌmblɪŋ
v. (present participle) breaking or falling apart into small fragments, especially due to decay or weakness
adj. in the process of collapsing or deteriorating physically or metaphorically
The root crumb traces back to Old English cruma (a small fragment), related to German Krume (crumb). The verb crumble emerged in Middle English (cromblen), combining crumb with the frequentative suffix -le, implying repeated action (like "dazzle" from "daze"). The -ing suffix marks the present participle, indicating ongoing decay or fragmentation. The word vividly captures the gradual, piece-by-piece nature of deterioration.
The ancient wall is crumbling after centuries of neglect.
Her resolve began crumbling under the pressure of constant criticism.
Add the crumbling cheese to the salad for extra flavor.
The cookie was so dry it started crumbling in my hands.
The empire’s power was slowly crumbling due to internal conflicts.