Breakdown

/bɹˈe‍ɪkda‍ʊn/

/ˈbɹeɪkˌdaʊn/

Breakdown

a situation in which something fails to work properly, especially because of a mechanical failure

a failure in the progress or effectiveness of a relationship or system

a condition in which a person becomes so anxious or depressed that they can no longer handle their everyday life

synonyms : crack-up

an analysis into mutually exclusive categories

(biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action

a lively and energetic solo or group dance with intricate footwork, often associated with Appalachian or Southern Appalachian traditional dancing

Examples

1. The engineers have been putting a brave face on the problem, but I think this breakdown is going to set us back for months.

2. Breakdowns can attract attention of the four-legged variety.

3. Then you get breakdowns other places.

4. My pterodactyl breakdown?