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.
At 2-0 down in the home Ashes of 2023, this regime may have crumbled had England not won the third Test at Headingley.
From BBC ● Jun. 24, 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
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 fairy tale romance seems to have crumbled quickly.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 24, 2023
At the end of time, when all the world’s buildings have crumbled away, there it will be.
From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd
