Webster's English Dictionary

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collapse

1. col.lapse \k*-'laps\ \-.lap-s*-'bil-*t-e-\ \-'lap-s*-b*l\ vb [L 
   collapsus, pp. of collabi, fr. com- + labi to fall,]slide - more at SLEEP 
   1: to break down completely : DISINTEGRATE  2: to fall or shrink together 
   abruptly and completely  3: to cave or fall in or give way  4: to suddenly 
   lose force, significance, effectiveness, or worth  5: to break down in 
   vital energy, stamina, or self-control through exhaust ion or disease; esp 
   : to fall helpless or unconscious 6: to fold down into a more compact shape 
    : to cause to collapse  - col.laps.ibil.i.ty n
2. collapse n : the act or an instance of collapsing : BREAKDOWN