Tumble to Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Use Used metaphorically to mean gaining sudden insight, not physically falling. He tumbled to the fact that she'd been ironic. Pro Tip 2/3Eureka Moment Expresses a moment of clarity or a sudden realization, like a lightbulb turning on. She tumbled to the meaning behind his words instantly. Pro Tip 3/3Casual Expression Considered informal; often used in casual conversation, not formal writing. After a while, he finally tumbled to what was happening.