cave in
cave in
Intransitive VerbTransitive Verb
past: caved inpp: caved ining: caving in
The term describes a sudden loss of structural integrity where a surface collapses toward its center. In a physical sense, it implies a violent or abrupt failure, often associated with gravity or external force, creating a hollow or concave depression.
When used figuratively, the phrase carries a connotation of defeat or surrender. It suggests that a person or entity held a firm position for a period but eventually succumbed to relentless pressure, often implying a lack of willpower or an inevitable capitulation.
Meanings
Intransitive Verbcave in
[~]
To collapse suddenly inward, typically referring to a roof, ceiling, or structure.
The roof of the old mine began to cave in after the heavy rains.
Phrasal Verbs
cave in
to collapse inward or surrender to pressure
The ceiling caved in during the earthquake.
Related Words
collapsecrumbleimplodeyieldsuccumbcapitulatesupportreinforceresistwithstandbuilderectceilingroofstructureearthquakedebrisrubblesinkholeminetunnelcavernfoundationweightpressuregravityinstabilityfailuredamageruinwreckagecatastrophedisastertremorseismictectonicsedimentrockstoneconcretebeampillarjoistbraceshoringscaffoldingvoidhollowdepressionsubsidencelandslideavalancheerosiondecaydeteriorationfragilityweaknessstressstrainloadcompressionimpactcrashfalldropplungesurrenderconcessionsubmissiondefeatbreakdownimplosion