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Definition of crumple

crumple

/ˈkrʌm.pəl/
crum · ple
Plural:crumples
•
Adjective:crumpled
•
Past Simple:crumpled
•
Past Participle:crumpled
•
Present Participle:crumpling
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crumple Lexical Profile

crumple Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To crush, press, or twist something into irregular folds or wrinkles, or to become crushed and wrinkled in this way.

Example

"He read the rejected draft one last time before he decided to crumple the paper and toss it into the recycling bin."

2

To collapse, buckle, or give way suddenly and completely, whether physically or emotionally.

Example

"Exhausted from the marathon, the runner began to crumple to the ground just past the finish line."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

An irregular fold, wrinkle, or crease in a surface or material, especially cloth or paper.

Example

"She used a warm iron to smooth out the stubborn crumples in her linen shirt."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for crumple

• Nearby Words

crumminess
crummy
crumpet
crumple
crumply
crunch
crunchable

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'crumplen', a frequentative form of 'crumpen' (to curl up or bend), derived from Old English 'crump' meaning crooked or bent.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crumple. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crumple
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