crumple
UK: /ˈkrʌm.pəl/ | US: /ˈkrʌm.pəl/
vt. to crush or press something into folds or wrinkles
vi. to become wrinkled or collapse suddenly
n. a wrinkle or irregular fold (less common)
crumple = crum<crush/bend> + ple<frequentative verb suffix>
- crum (from Old English crumb, meaning "bent, crooked" or "fragment")
- ple (a frequentative suffix in English, indicating repeated or small-scale action, as in "ripple" or "dimple")
Etymology Origin:
The word "crumple" traces back to Old English crumb, which conveyed the idea of bending or breaking into fragments. Over time, the suffix -ple was added to form a verb describing the repeated action of crushing or wrinkling. The evolution reflects a shift from a static state ("bent") to a dynamic process ("to wrinkle repeatedly"). This mirrors similar Germanic verb formations, where suffixes like -le or -ple imply gradual or iterative actions (e.g., "crumble," "topple").
She crumpled the paper and threw it into the bin.
The car’s hood crumpled on impact.
His face crumpled in disappointment.
The fabric tends to crumple easily if not ironed.
A sudden gust crumpled the tent’s fragile frame.