Here's why:
* Origin: It comes from the Old French word "eschambeler," meaning "to stumble." Originally, it referred to a butcher's stall, where animals were slaughtered, creating a messy and chaotic scene.
* Usage: It is used to describe a state of disorder, confusion, or ruin.
Examples:
* "The party ended in shambles." (The party was a mess.)
* "The economy is in shambles." (The economy is in a state of ruin.)
Even though it ends in "s" and sounds like a plural, it's treated as a singular noun in grammatical context.