Melt down

usgb
verb

To lose control emotionally.

She had a complete melt down when she realized she had lost her keys.
Visual representation of "melt down" - To lose control emotionally

Often appears as...

  • have a melt down
  • complete melt down

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "melt down"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Outburst

Refers to a person being unable to manage their emotions, usually in response to overwhelming stress.

Illustration for Emotional Outburst
After failing her exam, Jamie had a melt down in front of the whole class.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Usage

Mostly used in casual conversation, not in formal settings.

Illustration for Informal Usage
When her favorite character died in the show, she had a melt down.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

Does not mean a physical meltdown, but a sudden and intense emotional reaction.

Illustration for Not Literal
He's on the verge of a melt down with all the work stress.
Visual representation of the word "Melt down"

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