Disrupting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'disrumpere', which means 'to break apart'.
• It entered the English language around the late 14th century.
• The prefix 'dis-' in Latin signifies 'apart' or 'asunder', while 'rupt' refers to 'break'.

Business

• Technological companies are often seen as disrupting traditional industries by offering innovative solutions.
• The term 'disruptive innovation' describes new ideas that unexpectedly displace established products or services.
• Companies like Uber and Airbnb disrupted their respective markets by changing how people think about transportation and lodging.

Psychology

• Disruption can impact attention spans and cognitive function, leading to reduced task performance.
• Research shows that frequent interruptions can increase stress levels and decrease productivity.
• The brain's ability to refocus after a disruption takes time, which can lead to 'attention residue', where thoughts linger on previous tasks.

Art and Culture

• In art, disrupting traditional forms can lead to the creation of avant-garde movements, shaking up aesthetic standards.
• Performance art often relies on disruption to challenge audience perceptions and provoke thought.
• Cultural disruptions, such as protests or public demonstrations, can lead to significant societal changes.

Science

• In ecological terms, disruptions like natural disasters can drastically change entire ecosystems.
• The concept of 'disruptive selection' in evolution refers to how certain traits become more common due to environmental changes.
• Disruptions in chemical processes can lead to new compound formations, influencing fields like pharmaceuticals.

With rank #18,325, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 18322 paraphernalia
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• 18324 materialist
• 18325 disrupting
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• 18327 socialized
• 18328 gully
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