English Lexicon

Disrupt

/dɪsˈrʌpt/
verbCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #2850 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To interrupt the normal progress or activity of something.

    "The construction work will disrupt traffic in the area."
  2. 2

    To cause a disturbance or interruption in a system or process.

    "The new technology aims to disrupt traditional business models."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Latin verb disruptus, the past participle of disrumpere, meaning 'to break apart,' combining dis- (apart) and rumpere (to break). Entering the English language in the late 16th century, the term initially carried a physical sense of shattering or bursting asunder before evolving into contemporary abstract applications regarding the interruption of processes, systems, or events.

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