tumbledown
Translation
dilapidated, ramshackle
Examples
They lived in a tumbledown cottage.
They lived in a dilapidated cottage.
The old barn was in a tumbledown state.
The old barn was in a ramshackle state.
Grammar Patterns
((a tumbledown + noun)) a dilapidated (noun) They lived in a tumbledown cottage.
Similar Words
Synonyms: dilapidated, ramshackle, decrepit; Antonyms: sturdy, well-maintained
Etymology
From 'tumble' (to fall) + 'down'. Literally, something that looks like it's about to fall down.
Memory Tips
Imagine a building so old its bricks are 'tumbling down'.