Pronunciation: /ˈbreɪkdaʊn/
noun
-
1a mechanical failure: breakdowns could totally disrupt production
-
2a failure of a relationship or system: a breakdown in military discipline a communications breakdown [mass noun]: some of these women will have experienced marital breakdown
-
a sudden collapse in someone’s mental health: Heather had a breakdown following the death of her sister
-
3the chemical or physical decomposition of something: the breakdown of ammonia to nitrites
-
an explanatory analysis, especially of statistics: a detailed cost breakdown