Breakdown

Quick meaning: Breakdown is a noun meaning (countable) A failure, particularly one which is mechanical in nature.

Meaning

(countable) A failure, particularly one which is mechanical in nature.

More Meanings

1. (countable) Something, such as a vehicle, that has experienced a mechanical failure.
2. (uncountable) Separation of a thing into components; decomposition, fragmentation; (countable) an instance of this.
3. A failure in a relationship; a failure or loss of organization in a system.
4. Injury to a horse's leg causing lameness; (countable) an instance of this.
5. The short period of open play immediately after a tackle and before and during the ensuing ruck.
6. (Sudden) worsening of physical health or (more commonly) mental stability, resulting in an inability to carry on normal activities; (countable) an instance of this.
7. An act of splitting logs of wood using a large saw in a sawmill; also, the saw used; or (rare) the building in which the process is carried out.

Example Sentences

We saw a breakdown by the side of the road.

After so much stress, he suffered a breakdown and simply gave up.

Whenever he was behind the wheel, he would panic at the first sign of a breakdown.

I am quite competent to answer all / Demands, in any such capacity— / But of the break-down of my general aims: […]

Word Forms

• breakdowns
• break-down

Synonyms for breakdown

Depending on context, synonyms include partitioning, dislocation, crack-up.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include dislocation, partitioning, crack-up, downfall, destruction, destroy.

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