collapse

Main Entry: ²collapse

Function: noun

Date: 1801

1 a : a breakdown in vital energy, strength, or stamina b : a state of extreme prostration and physical depression (as from circulatory failure or great loss of body fluids) c : an airless state of all or part of a lung originating spontaneously or induced surgically
2 : the act or action of collapsing
3 : a sudden failure : breakdown, ruin
4 : a sudden loss of force, value, or effect