collapse
n. C / U B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //kəˈɫæps// UK //kəlˈæps// col·lapse
n. a sudden failure of something, like a building falling down or a system stopping. It can also describe a person suddenly falling because they are sick or tired.
n. a sudden failure of an institution, system, or structure; also, a physical breakdown or loss of consciousness in a person. Often used to describe a rapid decline in value or health.
The old building's collapse caused a lot of dust.
The sudden collapse of the banking system led to a nationwide financial crisis that lasted for several years.
Historians still debate whether the collapse of the empire was a singular catastrophic event or the culmination of centuries of gradual institutional decay and external pressure.
From Latin collāpsus (past participle of collābor).