disintegrate
Disintegrate (verb) means to break apart into pieces, or to fall apart completely. Example: “The old newspaper began to disintegrate the moment she touched it.”
How to use disintegrate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo fall to pieces, whether literally (an object) or figuratively (a relationship, a plan, a system).
Word forms
disintegrated past tense, disintegrates singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old newspaper began to _____ the moment she touched it.
Etymology
Recorded in English since around 1785, formed from dis- + integrate — the opposite of making something whole.
Related words
Rhymes for disintegrate
See all rhymes for disintegrate →Frequently asked questions
What does “disintegrate” mean?
The word “disintegrate” means to break apart into pieces, or to fall apart completely. In plain terms, to fall to pieces, whether literally (an object) or figuratively (a relationship, a plan, a system).
How do you pronounce “disintegrate”?
“Disintegrate” is pronounced dihs-IHN-tihg-rayt (/dɪsˈɪntɪɡɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “disintegrate” in a sentence?
Here is “disintegrate” used in a sentence: “The old newspaper began to disintegrate the moment she touched it.”
What is another word for “disintegrate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “disintegrate” include dismember, dissolve, decay and compost.
What is the opposite of “disintegrate”?
The opposite of “disintegrate” — its antonyms — is integrate.
What part of speech is “disintegrate”?
“Disintegrate” is a verb.
Where does the word “disintegrate” come from?
The word “disintegrate” dates back to around 1785. Recorded in English since around 1785, formed from dis- + integrate — the opposite of making something whole.