crumble
verb (used with object)
to break into small fragments or crumbs.
crumbling
-
present participleof crumble.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Kate Brown, a Sunset Square resident for 21 years, wanted to renovate the low wall outside her house in 2021, as well as paint the exterior and repair the crumbling stairs entering the property.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2026
Big picture: Worries about a crumbling labor market at the end of last year have mostly gone away.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 4, 2026
The city’s complaint included exhibits showing the dilapidated conditions of the homes—standing sewage in basements, black mold on walls, crumbling infrastructure—which it called harmful to the health and safety of the public.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026
Dozens of crumbling buildings in Venezuela's decimated earthquake zone bear a spray-painted letter 'D' -- a sign that buries any hope of finding life beneath the rubble.
From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026
He stepped directly from the crumbling blacktopped driveway out into the street.
From "The Strangers" by Margaret Peterson Haddix
