tumbledown
Translation
dilapidated, ramshackle, falling down
Examples
They lived in a tumbledown cottage.
They lived in a tumbledown cottage.
The old barn was in a tumbledown state.
The old barn was in a tumbledown state.
Grammar Patterns
((a tumbledown)) ((noun)) used to describe a building that is in a state of disrepair They lived in a tumbledown cottage.
Similar Words
Synonyms: dilapidated, ramshackle, run-down; Antonyms: sturdy, well-maintained, pristine
Etymology
A compound of 'tumble' (to fall) and 'down', literally describing something that looks like it is about to fall down.
Memory Tips
Picture a building that looks so old and weak it could 'tumble down' at any moment.