We theoretically study subradiant states in an array of atoms coupled to photons propagating in a one-dimensional waveguide focusing on the strongly interacting many-body regime with large excitation fill factor $f$. We introduce a generalized many-body entropy of entanglement based on exact numerical diagonalization followed by a high-order singular value decomposition. This approach has allowed us to visualize and understand the structure of a many-body quantum state. We reveal the breakdown of fermionized subradiant states with increase of $f$ with the emergence of short-ranged dimerized antiferromagnetic correlations at the critical point $f=1/2$ and the complete disappearance of subradiant states at $f>1/2$.

• Received 28 June 2021
• Revised 26 August 2021
• Accepted 21 September 2021

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.127.173601