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disintegrate

verb

/dɪsˈɪntɪɡreɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disintegrate

To break apart, fragment, or fall into pieces, often as a result of internal or external forces.
"Ancient artifacts can disintegrate if not stored under appropriate conditions."

Detailed meaning of disintegrate

When something disintegrates, it undergoes a breakdown or dissolution, losing its structural integrity and cohesion. This term is commonly used to describe the physical deterioration of objects, materials, or substances, such as when old paper disintegrates into dust, or when a building disintegrates over time due to neglect. It can also be applied metaphorically to describe the collapse or breakdown of organizations, relationships, or systems, emphasizing the idea of things falling apart or losing their unity and functionality. 'Disintegrate' implies a gradual or sudden deterioration that results in the disassembly or disarray of what was once whole or intact.

Example sentences containing disintegrate

1. Over time, neglected buildings can disintegrate, becoming nothing more than crumbling ruins.
2. The old bridge began to disintegrate under the relentless force of the raging river.
3. When exposed to extreme heat, certain metals can rapidly disintegrate into molten fragments.
4. The fragile sandcastle started to disintegrate as the waves washed over it.
5. The dictator's regime began to disintegrate as protests spread across the nation.
6. If you apply too much pressure, the delicate glass could disintegrate into sharp shards.

History and etymology of disintegrate

The term 'disintegrate' has its origins in Latin, where it can be traced back to the combination of two Latin words: 'dis,' meaning 'apart,' and 'integrare,' meaning 'to make whole' or 'to renew.' The prefix 'dis-' implies a separation or a breaking apart, while 'integrare' suggests the process of making something complete or whole. Therefore, the etymology of 'disintegrate' reveals that it describes the action of something falling apart or breaking into pieces, often in contrast to the idea of unity or wholeness, reflecting the concept of disintegration we understand today.

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Further usage examples of disintegrate

1. The ancient manuscript was so fragile that it seemed ready to disintegrate at a touch.
2. Under intense scrutiny, the suspect's alibi began to disintegrate, revealing inconsistencies.
3. The once tight-knit team began to disintegrate as conflicts and mistrust grew.
4. The asteroid's impact caused the massive boulder to disintegrate into smaller fragments.
5. Without proper maintenance, even the sturdiest machinery can eventually disintegrate.
6. The paper will disintegrate if you leave it in water.
7. Over time, the wooden steps will disintegrate without proper care.
8. Harsh chemicals can cause certain materials to disintegrate.
9. The ozone layer might disintegrate if we do not reduce pollution.
10. If you neglect your garden, the plants will disintegrate.
11. With the rain pouring down, the sandcastle will disintegrate soon.
12. The neglected building might disintegrate in the next storm.
13. The heat will make the sugar cubes disintegrate into the tea.
14. His resolve will disintegrate if he doesn't get support.
15. If the spacecraft enters the atmosphere too fast, it will disintegrate.
16. The excessive moisture caused the cardboard to disintegrate.
17. The acid made the metal disintegrate quickly.
18. As the comet gets closer to the sun, it will disintegrate.
19. Old photographs will disintegrate if not preserved properly.
20. The old man worries that his family's legacy will disintegrate over time.
21. The excessive use of fertilizer makes the soil quality disintegrate.
22. Their relationship will disintegrate if they don’t communicate.
23. With no maintenance, the bridge will disintegrate within a decade.
24. The enchanted spell will disintegrate at the stroke of midnight.