# fragmentation

/ˌfɹæɡmənˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /fɹˌæɡməntˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fragmentation
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the process of breaking into many small, separate pieces. It often describes a situation where something that was once united becomes divided and less effective.

For teachers: the process or state of breaking into smaller, detached parts or fragments. Often describes the loss of cohesion in systems, data, or social structures.

## Examples

- The fragmentation of the company led to many small, weak departments.
- Habitat fragmentation occurs when large forests are divided into smaller patches by roads or urban development, threatening local wildlife.
- The rapid fragmentation of the media landscape has made it increasingly difficult for advertisers to reach a truly national audience through a single television broadcast.

## Usage notes

- Often used in technical contexts like computing (disk fragmentation) or biology (habitat fragmentation).

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