1. (v. t.) To break in pieces violently; to dash together with noise and violence.

2. (v. i.) To make a loud, clattering sound, as of many things falling and breaking at once; to break in pieces with a harsh noise.

3. (v. i.) To break with violence and noise; as, the chimney in falling crashed through the roof.

4. (n.) A loud, sudden, confused sound, as of many things falling and breaking at once.

5. (n.) Ruin; failure; sudden breaking down, as of a business house or a commercial enterprise.

6. (n.) Coarse, heavy, narrow linen cloth, used esp. for towels.