fall apart

verb

1. 1

   become separated into pieces or fragments

   The figurine broke

   The freshly baked loaf fell apart

2. 2

   break or fall apart into fragments

   The cookies crumbled

   The Sphinx is crumbling

3. 3

   go to pieces

   The lawn mower finally broke

   The gears wore out

4. 4

   lose one's emotional or mental composure

   She fell apart when her only child died