Definition of crumple

The word "crumple" has a fascinating origin. It dates back to the 15th century and is derived from the Old English words "cru" meaning "to crush" and "ple" meaning "to fold". Initially, the verb "crumple" meant "to press or fold something into a crumpled or crushed shape", often referring to fabrics or other materials. Over time, the meaning of "crumple" expanded to include the idea of something giving way or collapsing under pressure, such as a person's clothes getting crumpled or a piece of paper crumpling up. In modern English, "crumple" can also describe the act of deliberately crushing or bending something, like crumpling up a piece of trash. The word's evolution from a simple description of physical manipulation to a nuanced concept of collapse and failure reflects the complexities of human language and the ways in which words can take on new meanings over time.