Disintegrated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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disintegrated
[dษชsหษชntษชหษกreษชtษชd ]
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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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 oneโs mental state, often observed in certain mental health conditions.
- Itโs 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.
Origin of 'disintegrated'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'disintegrate' originated from the Latin word 'disintegrare', which means 'to break into pieces'. The prefix 'dis-' implies reversal or removal, while 'integrare' comes from 'integer', meaning 'whole'. The concept of disintegration has been used in various scientific fields to describe the breakdown or fragmentation of substances or entities.
See also: disintegrate, integratable, integrate, integrated, integrating, integration, integrative, reintegrate.