Disintegrated: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something falls apart into small pieces often unexpectedly or due to some external force.

• The old book disintegrated in his hands
• The spaceship disintegrated upon re-entry

Refers to the natural process of decay, often used for organic materials over time.

• Leaves decompose and enrich the soil
• Over time, the fruits left unattended will decompose

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.

• Salt dissolves in water quickly
• The committee decided to dissolve the group due to lack of interest

Often used in a mechanical or systematic context to indicate that something stops functioning or is analyzed into its components.

• The car broke down on the way to the city
• The scientist broke down the compound into its basic elements

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.

• The ancient ruins slowly disintegrated over the centuries.
• As the spacecraft re-entered the atmosphere, it disintegrated due to the intense heat.

Use this word when something breaks into smaller, uneven pieces, not necessarily losing its essence completely. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

• The ceramic vase fragmented into several pieces when it hit the floor.
• Over time, memories of the event fragmented in her mind.

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.

• The mirror shattered into a thousand pieces when it fell off the wall.
• Her hopes were shattered when she didn't get the job.

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.

• The box was so old that it started to break apart when I picked it up.
• Their partnership began to break apart due to constant disagreements.