# fragmentary

/ˈfɹæɡmənˌtɛɹi/ (US) · /fɹæɡmˈɛntəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fragmentary
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

made up of many small, separate pieces that do not form a complete whole. You use this to describe things like broken rocks or incomplete information.

For teachers: consisting of separate, disconnected parts that do not form a complete whole. Often used to describe geological formations or historical records that are incomplete.

## Examples

- The geologist studied the fragmentary remains of the ancient volcano.
- Archaeologists found fragmentary evidence of the lost civilization, including a few broken pottery shards and a single stone tablet.
- The report was based on fragmentary data collected over several decades, making it difficult for the researchers to draw a definitive conclusion about the site's history.

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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.