Disintegrated: meaning, definitions and examples
💥
disintegrated
[dɪsˈɪntɪˌɡreɪtɪd ]
Definitions
in chemistry
To disintegrate means to break down into smaller parts or components, especially as a result of a chemical reaction. It involves the decomposition of a substance into simpler substances or particles.
Synonyms
break down, decompose, dissolve.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| disintegrated |
Used when something falls apart into small pieces often unexpectedly or due to some external force.
|
| decompose |
Refers to the natural process of decay, often used for organic materials over time.
|
| dissolve |
Indicates something mixes thoroughly with a liquid until it is no longer separate, or metaphorically to indicate the end of something such as a relationship or organization.
|
| break down |
Often used in a mechanical or systematic context to indicate that something stops functioning or is analyzed into its components.
|
Examples of usage
- The compound disintegrated into its individual elements.
- The sugar disintegrated when exposed to heat and moisture.
in physics
In physics, disintegrate refers to the process of breaking apart into smaller particles, often as a result of intense energy or force. It can also refer to the decay or breakdown of a nucleus or subatomic particle.
Synonyms
break apart, fragment, shatter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| disintegrated |
Use this word when something has completely broken down into many small parts, often losing its integrity or cohesion. It implies a complete and thorough breakdown.
|
| fragment |
Use this word when something breaks into smaller, uneven pieces, not necessarily losing its essence completely. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.
|
| shatter |
This word is best for situations where something breaks suddenly and violently into many sharp, small pieces. It often carries a dramatic or destructive implication.
|
| break apart |
This phrase is suitable when something separates into pieces but might still retain some recognizable parts. It's often used for both physical and non-physical things.
|
Examples of usage
- The asteroid disintegrated as it entered the Earth's atmosphere.
- The unstable element disintegrated into smaller particles.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Latin 'disintegratus', where 'dis-' means apart and 'integrare' means to make whole.
- It first appeared in English around the late 16th century, as a concept in both scientific and literal contexts.
- Related words include 'integrate,' which means to combine or bring together, showing a direct contrast.
Science
- In physics, disintegration can refer to the process where atomic nuclei break down into smaller parts, releasing energy.
- In chemistry, certain compounds can disintegrate when exposed to heat or reaction with other substances, demonstrating transformation.
- Biological disintegration often occurs with organic matter breaking down in decomposition, vital for nutrient recycling in ecosystems.
Psychology
- In psychology, the term can describe the breakdown of a person's thoughts or sense of identity during a stressful event.
- Disintegration can also relate to the loss of coherence in one’s mental state, often observed in certain mental health conditions.
- It’s considered a defense mechanism where one may disconnect from reality in overwhelming situations.
Literature
- In literature, the theme of disintegration often symbolizes societal decay or the collapse of personal relationships.
- Authors like Fyodor Dostoevsky explore themes of disintegration in the human psyche, showing how circumstances can fragment identity.
- Poetic imagery often uses disintegration to convey emotional turmoil, representing the shattering of hope or dreams.
Pop Culture
- In movies, disintegration effects are commonly used in sci-fi films to depict advanced technology or alien disassembly.
- The concept has emerged in popular songs, often reflecting feelings of loss or emotional fragmentation in relationships.
- Video games frequently incorporate disintegration as an element in destructive environments, enhancing the gameplay experience.
Translations
Translations of the word "disintegrated" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desintegrado
🇮🇳 विघटित
🇩🇪 zerfallen
🇮🇩 terurai
🇺🇦 розпався
🇵🇱 rozpadł się
🇯🇵 分解された
🇫🇷 désintégré
🇪🇸 desintegrado
🇹🇷 dağılmış
🇰🇷 분해된
🇸🇦 متفكك
🇨🇿 rozpadlý
🇸🇰 rozpadnutý
🇨🇳 解体的
🇸🇮 razpadel
🇮🇸 niðurbrotinn
🇰🇿 ыдыраған
🇬🇪 დაშლილი
🇦🇿 dağılmış
🇲🇽 desintegrado