# crumbling

/ˈkɹəmbəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /kɹˈʌmblɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crumbling
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

breaking into small pieces because something is very old or in bad condition. You use this to describe buildings, walls, or even systems that are falling apart.

For teachers: breaking into small fragments or decaying; in a state of disintegration. Often used figuratively to describe institutions or relationships that are failing.

## Examples

- The old house has crumbling walls and a leaking roof.
- The city is struggling to repair its crumbling infrastructure after decades of neglect and underfunding.
- The novel depicts a family living in a crumbling mansion, serving as a metaphor for their fading social status and internal emotional decay.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; can also follow a linking verb like 'remain' or 'look'.

---

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.