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Disconnect: meaning, definitions and examples

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disconnect

 

[ˌdɪs.kəˈnekt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

technology

To break the connection or link between electronic devices or systems.

Synonyms

disengage, sever, unplug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disconnect

This word is often used in both technical and non-technical situations to describe the act of detaching or ending a connection. It can be applied to physical connections, such as electronics, as well as more abstract connections, like relationships or communications.

  • Please disconnect the power cable from the wall socket before cleaning.
  • There seems to be a disconnect between the team members and their leader.
unplug

Unplug is most commonly used in technical and practical contexts to describe the act of removing a power source or a connection, usually in a straightforward and non-dramatic way.

  • Make sure to unplug your laptop before you leave the office.
  • It's good to unplug and relax during weekends.
disengage

Disengage is typically used to indicate the process of releasing or detaching something that is actively involved or engaged. It often conveys the idea of stopping an engagement or interaction, be it mechanical or personal.

  • You need to disengage the clutch before changing gears.
  • She found it difficult to disengage from the heated discussion.
sever

Sever carries a more dramatic and often negative connotation, indicating a complete and often final break. It can refer to cutting something physically or ending a relationship decisively.

  • He had to sever the rope to free the trapped animal.
  • Due to irreconcilable differences, they decided to sever all ties.

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to disconnect your phone from the Wi-Fi before leaving the house.
  • After the storm, many homes were left without power due to disconnected cables.
  • The technician will disconnect the old printer and connect the new one.
  • The website will automatically disconnect you if you are inactive for too long.
  • I accidentally disconnected the call while trying to switch to speakerphone.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'disconnect' comes from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'apart' and the root 'connect' which means 'join'.
  • It entered the English language in the early 20th century, gradually gaining popularity in various contexts.
  • Originally used in relation to physical objects, its meaning has expanded to include emotional and social contexts.

Technology

  • In computing, disconnecting often refers to losing an internet connection, which can disrupt access to online services.
  • The term is frequently used in electronics when separating power sources or cables, ensuring safety and functionality.
  • Wireless devices regularly experience connectivity issues that lead to disconnecting, highlighting dependency on stable connections.

Psychology

  • In mental health, a feeling of disconnect can indicate emotional detachment or a lack of connection with others.
  • Individuals may experience disconnect from their surroundings during high stress, termed as 'dissociation'.
  • Therapeutic practices often aim to restore feelings of connection or help individuals reconnect with their emotions and relationships.

Social Culture

  • The concept of disconnecting has gained traction in discussions about or promoting digital detoxes, encouraging people to unplug from technology.
  • Social media often leads to a paradoxical sense of disconnect, where individuals can feel isolated despite having many online friends.
  • The phrase 'disconnect to reconnect' is often used in wellness cultures suggesting time away from screens improves real-life relationships.

Literature

  • In modern literature, themes of disconnect appear frequently, exploring characters' struggles against societal expectations.
  • Fiction often uses the idea of disconnect as a plot device, where characters must overcome separation to find themselves or each other.
  • Poetry may depict emotional disconnect through metaphors, illustrating the nuances of isolation or alienation felt by individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "disconnect" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desconectar

🇮🇳 डिस्कनेक्ट

🇩🇪 trennen

🇮🇩 memutuskan

🇺🇦 від'єднати

🇵🇱 odłączyć

🇯🇵 切断する (せつだんする)

🇫🇷 déconnecter

🇪🇸 desconectar

🇹🇷 bağlantıyı kesmek

🇰🇷 연결을 끊다

🇸🇦 قطع الاتصال

🇨🇿 odpojit

🇸🇰 odpojiť

🇨🇳 断开 (duànkāi)

🇸🇮 odklopiti

🇮🇸 aftengja

🇰🇿 ажырату

🇬🇪 გათიშვა

🇦🇿 ayırmaq

🇲🇽 desconectar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,308, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.