crumble
verb (used with object)
to break into small fragments or crumbs.
have crumbled
-
present perfectof crumble.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Given their poor run of results - two wins in nine - and faced with the task of dislodging the Kiwis on the road-like pitch and in extreme temperatures, England could have crumbled.
From BBC ● Jun. 26, 2026
And Guardiola admitted his side would have crumbled under the weight of Forest's aggressive game-plan last term.
From Barron's ● Dec. 27, 2025
But, as he sees it, these pillars have crumbled in recent years.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 24, 2025
Industries catering to preteens have crumbled as social media has become the epicenter of cultural dissemination, with tween fashion and beauty largely being folded into brands that cater to adults.
From Slate ● Nov. 3, 2024
The major beams have all held, but whole walls have crumbled.
From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee
