Disintegrating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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disintegrating
[dษชหsษชn.tษช.ษกreษช.tษชล ]
Definition
physical process
Disintegrating refers to the process of breaking apart or falling apart into smaller pieces or components. This can occur due to physical, chemical, or environmental factors, and is often associated with deterioration or decay.
Synonyms
breaking down, crumbling, dissolving.
Examples of usage
- The old building is disintegrating due to years of neglect.
- The tablet showed signs of disintegrating in the water.
- Their relationship began disintegrating after the argument.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, disintegration can refer to the decay of atomic particles, such as isotopes breaking down into other elements.
- In chemistry, certain compounds disintegrate when they undergo reactions, showcasing how matter can change form.
- Biologically, organic matter disintegrates during decomposition, returning nutrients to the soil.
Environmental Studies
- Pollution can cause plastics and other materials to disintegrate in the environment, impacting wildlife.
- Ecosystems may disintegrate due to climate change, leading to loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
- Coral reefs are said to be 'disintegrating' as ocean temperatures rise and waters become more acidic.
Literature
- The theme of societal disintegration is common in dystopian novels, portraying a world breaking down.
- In poetry, disintegration can be used metaphorically to describe the breakdown of relationships or human emotions.
- Famous works, like 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy, depict a world that is visibly disintegrating due to apocalyptic events.
Psychology
- Disintegration can also refer to a psychological state when someone's sense of self or reality begins to fall apart.
- In therapy, clients may explore feelings of disintegration when they experience trauma or significant life changes.
- The concept of identity disintegration can be linked to conditions like dissociative disorders.
Origin of 'disintegrating'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'disintegratio', meaning to break apart or separate.
- It is made from the prefix 'dis-', meaning apart, and 'integer', meaning whole.
- The term has been used in English since the late 15th century, primarily in scientific contexts.
The word 'disintegrate' comes from the Latin word 'disintegratus', which is the past participle of 'disintegrare', meaning 'to separate into parts'. The roots of the word break down into 'dis-', a prefix meaning 'apart', and 'integrare', which means 'to make whole'. This illustrates the process of becoming less whole or whole to fragmented. The usage of the term has evolved across various contexts, including physical sciences where it refers to processes such as radioactive decay or erosion, as well as social contexts, indicating relationships or systems breaking apart.