# disintegration

/dɪˌsɪnəˈɡɹeɪʃən/ (US) · /dˌɪsˌɪntɪɡɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disintegration
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the process of breaking into small pieces or falling apart completely. It can describe a physical object breaking or a group of people losing their connection.

For teachers: the process of losing cohesion or strength; the breaking down of a whole into constituent parts or fragments. In a geological context, refers to the mechanical weathering of rock into smaller particles without chemical change.

## Examples

- The old building is in a state of total disintegration.
- Geologists observed the rapid disintegration of the cliff face due to the constant cycle of freezing and thawing.
- The political scientist argued that the sudden disintegration of the empire was caused by internal corruption rather than external military pressure.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'of' to identify the entity that is breaking apart.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.