Meaning of the word "melt down" in English
What does "melt down" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
melt down
US /ˈmɛltˌdaʊn/
UK /ˈmɛltˌdaʊn/
Noun
1.
a disastrous collapse or breakdown, especially of a nuclear reactor core or a financial system
Example:
•
The company experienced a financial meltdown after the stock market crash.
•
The nuclear reactor was on the verge of a meltdown.
2.
an instance of losing emotional control, especially as a result of stress
Example:
•
The child had a complete meltdown in the supermarket when he couldn't get the toy he wanted.
•
After weeks of intense pressure, she had a public meltdown during the press conference.
Phrasal Verb
1.
to lose emotional control and become very upset
Example:
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The toddler started to melt down when his ice cream fell on the ground.
•
I thought I was going to melt down from all the stress at work.
2.
for a nuclear reactor core to overheat and melt
Example:
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There was a fear that the reactor would melt down after the earthquake.
•
Safety protocols are in place to prevent a nuclear reactor from melting down.
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