crumple
verb (used with object)
to press or crush into irregular folds or into a compact mass; bend out of shape; rumple; wrinkle.
crumpling
-
present participleof crumple.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.
Videos posted to social media and verified by AFP on Monday showed the catastrophic collapse of a shopping centre in General Santos, and an unoccupied school building crumpling.
From Barron's ● Jun. 9, 2026
It’s a mean taunt that comes from a sibling, unaware that civilization is crumpling around him.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 26, 2025
"Knowing my son ended up like this, I'm inconsolable, I'm filled with grief," U Hla Aung said, his face crumpling into a sob.
From BBC ● Apr. 2, 2025
But first, she sobs, crumpling into Samuel’s arms while he holds her close.
From Salon ● Dec. 30, 2024
Small hands reached out uncertainly, touched, grasped, unpetaling the transfigured roses, crumpling the illuminated pages of the books.
From "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley
