Meaning 1neutral · 82%
To gradually break into parts, decompose, or lose internal cohesion.
Natural examples
Der alte Putz zerfällt an mehreren Stellen von der Wand.
The old plaster is crumbling off the wall in several places.
Nach langen Streitigkeiten zerfiel die Koalition.
After prolonged disputes, the coalition fell apart.
Das Blatt zerfiel im Wasser in kleine Stücke.
The leaf broke down into small pieces in the water.
Usage note
zerfallen is strong: zerfiel, ist zerfallen. It forms the perfect with sein and is inseparable.
Mini-lesson: zerfallen
To gradually break into parts, decompose, or lose internal cohesion. zerfallen is strong: zerfiel, ist zerfallen. It forms the perfect with sein and is inseparable.
Check your learning
Choose one answer.Which definition matches «zerfallen»?