Showing results for crumples. Search instead for schrumpelns.

crumples

VERB

make or become wrinkled

Synonyms

STRONGEST

break down buckle crush scrunch

STRONG

collapse crease crimp crinkle fall fold pucker ruck rumple screw shrivel wad wrinkle

WEAK

cave in crimple give way go to pieces rimple

Antonyms

STRONG

flatten rise smooth straighten

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If people and institutions and businesses and government stand up to him, he crumples.

From Slate • Jan. 23, 2026

A piercing scream erupts in the crowd; a woman’s face crumples and flutters, like a paper mask about to disintegrate.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 11, 2023

His forehead crumples as he does so and his big hands shake.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2023

The situation is akin to a car that crumples in a crash: the vehicle absorbs the impact to protect passengers, but it is totaled.

From Scientific American • Feb. 22, 2023

“Are you kidding me? Thompson wishes he had a career like Laimbeer’s! Thompson has no grit. He crumples in a game like a paper napkin at a barbecue.”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan