I. ˈkrəm-bəl verb
( crum·bled ; crum·bling -b(ə-)liŋ)
Etymology: alteration of Middle English kremelen, frequentative of Old English gecrymian to crumble, from cruma
Date: 1547
transitive verb
: to break into small pieces
intransitive verb
1. : to fall into small pieces : disintegrate
2. : to break down completely : collapse
marriages crumble
II. noun
Date: 1860
1. : something crumbled : fine debris
2. : crisp 2