crumble

1 of 2

verb

crum·​ble ˈkrəm-bəl 

crumbled; crumbling ˈkrəm-b(ə-)liŋ 

transitive verb

: to break into small pieces

intransitive verb

1

: to fall into small pieces : disintegrate

2

: to break down completely : collapse

marriages crumble

crumble

2 of 2

noun

1

: something crumbled : fine debris

2

: crisp sense 2

Synonyms

Verb

• atrophy
• decay
• decline
• degenerate
• descend
• deteriorate
• devolve
• ebb
• regress
• retrograde
• rot
• sink
• worsen

Examples of crumble in a Sentence

Verb

Crumble the cookies into small bits.

The recipe calls for the herbs to be crumbled.

bones so old they had crumbled to dust

She was extremely depressed after her marriage crumbled.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

His boss, Herr Knock (Simon McBurney), dispatches him to Orlok’s castle so that the Count can buy a crumbling old pile in Germany. —Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 24 Dec. 2024

Roasted or sautéed garlic can add a savory depth, fresh or dried herbs can add complexity, freshness, and pops of color, grated cheese can add an indulgent finish, and crumbled bacon can add a salty kick and textural contrast. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 24 Dec. 2024

Noun

Top with the pepperoni-sage bread crumble, then bake at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is toasted. —Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2024

There are also optional add-ons and a la carte items plus pumpkin cheesecake and apple crumble at various costs. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Verb

alteration of Middle English kremelen, frequentative of Old English gecrymian to crumble, from cruma

First Known Use

Verb

1547, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Noun

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

crumble

verb

crum·​ble

ˈkrəm-bəl

crumbled; crumbling

-b(ə-)liŋ

1

: to break into small pieces

crumble bread

2

: to fall into ruin

relationships crumble