breakdown

Definition

A failure, particularly one which is mechanical in nature.

Etymology

Deverbal from break down.

Example Sentences

• "Whenever he was behind the wheel, he would panic at the first sign of a breakdown."
• "He declared that these drastic steps would undoubtedly inconvenience a good many people, but the alternative was bankruptcy of the Ulster Transport Authority and the breakdown of public transport services."
• "We saw a breakdown by the side of the road."

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