# buckling

/ˈbəkɫɪŋ/ (US) · /bˈʌklɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/buckling
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

to bend or break under pressure. In geology, it describes how rock layers fold when they are pushed together by the Earth's movement.

For teachers: to bend, twist, or collapse under pressure or stress. In a geological context, it refers to the deformation of rock strata into folds as a result of tectonic forces.

## Examples

- The old fence is buckling under the weight of the heavy snow.
- Geologists observed the buckling of the sedimentary layers as the tectonic plates continued to collide over millions of years.
- The structural integrity of the bridge was compromised when the steel supports began buckling under the unprecedented strain of the hurricane-force winds.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.