crackup

[ krak-uhp ]

noun

1. a crash; collision.
2. a breakdown in health, especially a mental breakdown.
3. collapse or disintegration:

   the crackup of an alliance.

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackup¹

First recorded in 1850–55; noun use of verb phrase crack up

Example Sentences

In 2021, researchers noticed fissures on the floating ice at the ocean foot of the glacier, suggesting its crackup may already be underway.

From Science Magazine

When the freshly murdered Banquo crashes the party, Macbeth’s crackup goes into overdrive, suggesting a psychotic break more than a bad conscience.

From Los Angeles Times

In more words: What we’re watching play out is the crackup of the old GOP.

From Seattle Times

In 2019, several of its co-authors reported the discovery of a family of asteroids, named Athor, that was produced in the crackup of an ancient body.

From Science Magazine

While the crackup may seem as if it was inevitable in retrospect, it was also reflective of a hallmark of the Trump era: After two impeachments, a Capitol riot and numerous criminal indictments, the question of how to cover Trump is no closer to being solved.

From New York Times

Related Words

• breakdown
• destruction
• smash-up