buckle

Definitions

• (intransitive) To distort or collapse under physical pressure; especially, of a slender structure in compression.
• (transitive) To make bend; to cause to become distorted.
• (intransitive) To give in; to react suddenly or adversely to stress or pressure (of a person).
• (intransitive) To yield; to give way; to cease opposing.
• (obsolete) To enter upon some labour or contest; to join in close fight; to contend.
• To buckle down; to apply oneself.