Crumple

/ˈkrəm.pəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a state of being wrinkled or creased.

The dress had a crumple that made it look less elegant.

a fold or crease in a material.

There was a noticeable crumple in the corner of the canvas.

verb

to crush together; to fold or press into wrinkles.

She crumpled the piece of paper and tossed it into the trash.

to lose firmness or strength; to collapse.

The old bridge crumpled under the weight of the heavy truck.

to make something (especially paper) wrinkled or creased.

He accidentally crumpled the map while trying to fold it.

Middle English crumplen, from crump (to bend or twist).

crumple under pressure:

To yield or give in under stress or difficult circumstances.

crumpled mess:

A disorganized or wrinkled collection of items, often paper or fabric.

To fail or collapse dramatically.

The deal crumpled at the last minute.

To give in or become submissive.

He totally crumpled when she challenged him.