Definition of: collapse

(kə·laps′) v. ·lapsed, ·laps·ing v.i.
1. To give way; cave in.
2. To fail utterly; come to ruin.
3. To assume a more compact form by the folding in of parts, as of camp chairs.
4. To lose health or strength completely, as from exhaustion or disease; become suddenly and completely prostrated.
5. To lose courage or boldness; sink suddenly from notice.
—v.t.
6. To cause to collapse.
—noun
1. A falling or sinking together.
2. Extreme prostration.
3. Utter failure; ruin. [<L collapsus, pp. of collabi <com- together + labi fall]
—col·laps′i·ble or ·a·ble adjective
—col·laps′i·bil′i·ty noun