meltdown
UK: ˈmeltdaʊn | US: ˈmeltdaʊn
n. 1. A severe overheating and collapse of a nuclear reactor core.
n. 2. A sudden disastrous failure or collapse (e.g., financial or emotional).
n. 3. An outburst of extreme distress or anger (informal).
The term originated in the mid-20th century in nuclear physics, combining "melt" (from Old English meltan, meaning "to liquefy by heat") and "down" (emphasizing irreversible collapse). It later metaphorically expanded to describe financial crises (e.g., stock market crashes) and emotional breakdowns, reflecting the imagery of uncontrollable dissolution.
The reactor's meltdown released dangerous radiation into the environment.
The company faced a financial meltdown after the scandal.
She had a meltdown when her flight was canceled.
Preventing a climate meltdown requires urgent action.
Toddlers often have meltdowns when they're overtired.