1. plural of crumbling; small fragments or pieces that break off from something larger
Usage: usually used in plural form; often refers to the process or result of gradual decay or disintegration
2. the act or process of breaking apart into small pieces; gradual deterioration
Usage: gerund noun form; often used metaphorically to describe social, political, or institutional decay

Examples

• The old wall showed crumblings of mortar between the bricks.
• We swept up the crumblings of the stale cake from the counter.
• The crumblings of the ancient empire took place over several centuries.
• The foundation displayed crumblings that indicated serious structural problems.
• Small crumblings of plaster fell from the ceiling during the earthquake.
• The crumblings of their relationship became evident after months of conflict.