Toppling

The act or process of becoming unstable and falling over; causing something to lose balance and fall. It implies a shift in position, often dramatically, resulting in a change from an upright or stable state to a prone or collapsed one. This can apply to physical objects, abstract concepts like governments or institutions, or even a person's emotional state. The core meaning focuses on the loss of equilibrium and the subsequent descent or failure, suggesting instability and a potential for destruction or collapse. Often the result of an external force, but can sometimes be the consequence of inherent weakness or internal processes.

Toppling meaning with examples

• The strong gust of wind caused the precarious stack of books toppling from the table, scattering pages across the floor. It was a sudden and chaotic event, illustrating the vulnerability of the imperfectly balanced tower. Sarah watched in dismay as her carefully arranged collection of antique novels spilled everywhere.
• The dictator's regime, weakened by years of corruption and internal dissent, began to show signs of toppling. The protests grew louder and more frequent, highlighting the power struggle between opposing factions and accelerating the end of an oppressive political era, which, if successful, could lead to democracy.
• The domino effect was dramatic; with the first one toppling, the rest of the line followed in a chain reaction. Each domino falling caused the one next to it to fall and ultimately causing chaos for anyone trying to stop the effect from completing.
• During the storm, the ancient oak tree's roots were so compromised that its massive trunk began to toppling, creating a deafening crash. The destruction was immense, leaving behind a trail of splintered wood and damaged property. It was a very costly effect and a clear example of weather's impact on the world.
• His composure, fragile after the difficult news, began to show signs of toppling under the pressure. His friends were concerned as he started to show the signs of emotional instability. After the collapse, he withdrew and isolated from his family and friends for a short while.