Definition
To crush or compress something into small folds and wrinkles, destroying its smooth or flat appearance; used both literally for physical objects and figuratively for abstract concepts like confidence or resolve. The term often implies a sudden collapse or deterioration.
Example Usage
She crumpled the rejection letter in her fist, unable to hide her disappointment.
Origin
From Middle English, possibly related to 'crumb,' with the suffix '-le' suggesting repeated action or the sound of the action.
Fun Fact
In materials science, crumpling is studied as a complex geometric problem—even crumpling paper follows specific mathematical patterns.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “crumple” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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