Buckling

Buckling refers to the sudden failure of a structural component under compressive stress, where the element deflects laterally. This instability often involves a significant change in shape, leading to collapse or a reduced load-bearing capacity. The term can also describe the act of fastening or securing something with a buckle, or the creasing or bending of a surface or material under pressure or strain. It emphasizes a loss of stability or integrity, whether physical or metaphorical.

Buckling meaning with examples

• The old bridge's support beams showed signs of buckling under the weight of the heavy traffic, causing authorities to close the crossing for urgent repairs. The engineers realized the metal's elasticity had been exceeded and that the whole structure was at risk. Early detection meant that this dangerous situation was averted.
• Under the intense heat of the blast furnace, the steel girders started to buckle, dramatically altering their shape. The relentless temperatures weakened the material, its structural integrity diminished. The operators immediately began to cool the structure, so they could prevent a major industrial disaster.
• Despite the careful packaging, the shipping box buckled during transit, crushing the fragile contents inside. The pressure of the other packages proved too great, with the cardboard unable to withstand it's load. An insurance claim would have to be made as a result of the damage.
• As she nervously approached the podium, her knees began to buckle under the weight of the upcoming presentation. A mixture of nervousness and expectation brought on the physical reaction. Despite the weak legs, she stood tall and delivered her presentation.
• The relentless rain caused the dam's wall to buckle, threatening to unleash a catastrophic flood downstream. The pressure of the water exceeding the maximum design limits of the structure. Emergency services had to work to avert disaster.
• Trying to escape the crush of the crowd in the stadium, I felt a sudden force and my legs buckled, sending me stumbling. I realized I was suffering from claustrophobia at the time. I just needed some space to recover.
• The prolonged financial strain caused the company's defenses to buckle, eventually leading to bankruptcy. Faced with declining sales, the business began to flounder. Many employees had to look for a new job.
• The stress of the assignment was too much, and the student felt his resolve buckle, leaving him unable to proceed. The pressure proved too much, the weight of expectation had become too much.
• He could feel the material buckle under the tension when applying too much force, so had to ease up, and start again. It was vital to stop before causing a major issue.
• The weight of the sandbag, the pressure of the ground beneath it and other sandbags, caused it to buckle. Its shape changed drastically.
• The roof structure buckled because of the weight of the snow.
• A strong wind made the sail buckle causing the boat to heel over.