crackup

[ krak-uhp ]

noun

1. a crash; collision.
2. a breakdown in health, especially a mental breakdown.
3. collapse or disintegration:

   the crackup of an alliance.

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackup¹

First recorded in 1850–55; noun use of verb phrase crack up

Example Sentences

In between all that driving and the crackups and explosions that come with it, characters express their deepest feelings, generally in sentences of three words or less.

From Time

His most recent book, The Death of Conservatism, is required reading for any serious student of the current conservative crackup.

From The Daily Beast

Now Frank tried to delay Lester's inevitable complete crackup by encouraging his interest in their situation.

From Project Gutenberg

Do you think they could have anything to do with Bradshaw's sudden crackup?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• breakdown
• destruction
• smash-up