English Reference

Word

collapsible

Phoneticscol·lapsi·ble

US/kəˈɫæpsəbəɫ/

UK/kəlˈæpsəbəl/

Definition

adj. able to fold up small so you can carry or store it easily.

adj. capable of being folded or compressed into a smaller form for storage or transport. Applies to furniture, containers, and portable equipment designed for compact storage.

Examples

“We use a collapsible chair for camping trips.”

“She keeps a collapsible shopping bag in her purse for unexpected trips to the market.”

“The theatre relies on collapsible sets that stagehands can dismantle within minutes between performances.”

Examples

simple

“We use a collapsible chair for camping trips.”

contextual

“She keeps a collapsible shopping bag in her purse for unexpected trips to the market.”

complex

“The theatre relies on collapsible sets that stagehands can dismantle within minutes between performances.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “collapsible” in context.

Verb

01. design collapsible

“Engineers worked to design collapsible structures that could be used in space missions.”

verb + adj

02. feature collapsible

“The new model features collapsible side mirrors to prevent damage in tight parking spots.”

verb + adj

Adjective

03. fully collapsible

“The stroller is fully collapsible, making it easy to fit into the trunk of a small car.”

adv + adj

04. lightweight collapsible

“We recommend a lightweight collapsible chair for long hiking trips.”

adj + adj

Noun

05. collapsible cup

“The silicone collapsible cup is a great eco-friendly alternative for travelers.”

adj + noun

06. collapsible stock

“The rifle is equipped with a collapsible stock for better portability.”

adj + noun

07. collapsible table

“They set up a collapsible table in the garden for the summer barbecue.”

adj + noun

08. collapsible umbrella

“I always keep a small collapsible umbrella in my backpack just in case it rains.”

adj + noun

09. fold into a collapsible

“The heavy crate can fold into a collapsible frame for easy storage.”

10. sturdy yet collapsible

“The camping gear is designed to be sturdy yet collapsible.”

Real-World Examples

“Co-author: “The unique geometry of the valves is the key; they act as collapsible pistons" to deliver venom.”
Ars Technica 13 Oct 2026
“The crux of Coleman’s new collapsible cooler design is its external plastic shell.”
Fast Company 17 Mar 2026
“Two snap-on trays hold collapsible plastic cups for water (for watercolor artists), brushes and paints.”
orleanshub.com 1 Jan 2024
“Straw hats, cross-body bags, and collapsible chairs are some of the essentials pilgrims have on them as they perform the Hajj.”
Associated Press 25 Jun 2023

Word family

ADJECTIVE

collapsible(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference