Disintegrate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disintegrate

[หŒdษชsหˆษชntษชหŒษกreษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in chemistry

To disintegrate means to break down into smaller parts or components, often as a result of a chemical reaction.

Synonyms

break down, decompose, dissolve.

Examples of usage

  • Mixing the two chemicals caused the compound to disintegrate into its individual elements.
  • The heat caused the plastic to disintegrate, releasing toxic fumes.
Context #2 | Verb

in relationships

To disintegrate can also refer to the deterioration or collapse of a relationship, organization, or system.

Synonyms

break down, deteriorate, fall apart.

Examples of usage

  • The company started to disintegrate after the CEO's scandal.
  • The family's unity began to disintegrate as disagreements arose.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, 'disintegration' often refers to radioactive decay, where an unstable atomic nucleus breaks apart.
  • In chemistry, certain compounds can disintegrate when exposed to heat or specific chemicals, leading to simpler substances.

Pop Culture

  • Disintegration has been a popular theme in movies, especially in sci-fi genres where objects or beings break down into energy or particles.
  • The song 'Disintegration' by The Cure explores themes of loss and emotional breakdown, reflecting how feelings can fragment.

Environmental Studies

  • Ecosystems can disintegrate if exposed to pollutants, leading to loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
  • Plastic waste can disintegrate into microplastics in oceans, which pose serious threats to marine life.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, disintegration can refer to a breakdown of one's identity or sense of self, often after trauma.
  • Some theories suggest that intense stress can lead to disintegration of coping mechanisms, affecting mental health.

Origin of 'disintegrate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'disintegrat-', which means to break apart.
  • It combines 'dis-', meaning 'apart or away', with 'integrate', which means to combine or make whole.

The word 'disintegrate' originated from the Latin word 'disintegratus', which is a combination of the prefix 'dis-' (apart) and 'integrare' (to make whole). The concept of disintegration has been observed in various fields such as chemistry, physics, and relationships, highlighting the process of breaking down or falling apart.


See also: disintegrated, integratable, integrate, integrated, integrating, integration, integrative, reintegrate.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,887, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.