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REFERENCE

disposal

n.
US //dɪˈspoʊzəɫ// UK //dɪspˈəʊzəl// dis·pos·al
  1. 1 getting rid of something (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of throwing something away or getting rid of it properly.

    the act or process of getting rid of something, especially waste or unwanted items.

    Example

    The safe disposal of plastic waste is a major problem for the environment.

    Example

    The local council implemented stricter regulations regarding the disposal of hazardous industrial chemicals to prevent groundwater contamination.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'of'.

  2. 2 available for use (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    having something ready for you to use whenever you need it.

    the state of being available for one's use or under one's control.

    Example

    If you need any help, I am at your disposal.

    Example

    With a vast array of digital tools at their disposal, modern architects can simulate structural stresses before construction even begins.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the fixed phrase 'at someone's disposal'.

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  1. 3 kitchen machine (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    a machine under the kitchen sink that grinds up food waste.

    an electromechanical device installed under a kitchen sink that shreds food waste into small pieces.

    Example

    Don't put large bones down the disposal or it might break.

    Example

    The plumber noted that the disposal was clogged because the tenants had been pouring grease down the drain for months.

    • garbage disposal
    • waste disposer
  2. 4 internet slang (n.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    a way to describe getting rid of someone or something online, often in a harsh way.

    a slang usage referring to the act of dismissing or 'getting rid of' a person or entity in digital contexts.

    Example

    The streamer's disposal of the toxic moderator was praised by the community.

    Example

    The rapid disposal of the controversial post by the site administrators sparked a debate about censorship in the comments section.

Origin

From dispose + -al.

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