buckle

(bŭkˈəl)

1. A clasp for fastening two ends, as of straps or a belt, in which a device attached to one of the ends is fitted or coupled to the other.
2. An ornament that resembles this clasp, such as a metal square on a shoe or hat.
3. An instance of bending, warping, or crumpling; a bend or bulge.

1. To fasten with a buckle.
2. To cause to bend, warp, or crumple.

1. To become fastened with a buckle.
2. To bend, warp, or crumple, as under pressure or heat.
3. To give way; collapse: My knees buckled with fear.
4. To succumb, as to exhaustion or authority; give in: finally buckled under the excessive demands of the job.