Meaning & Definition of word "Separate"

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    Separate

    /ˈsɛpəˌreɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. to set or keep apart; to divide or disconnect.
      • Example: The teacher asked the students to separate into groups for the project.
    • 2. to remove from association or joint influence.
      • Example: They decided to separate their finances after the divorce.
    • 3. to create a distinction between two or more things.
      • Example: It is important to separate fact from fiction in any research.

    adjective:

    • 1. distinct or not joined; existing as an independent entity.
      • Example: They live in separate houses in different neighborhoods.
    • 2. not connected or related.
      • Example: She has separate interests that she pursues outside of work.
    • 3. divided or set apart.
      • Example: The two countries have had separate histories for centuries.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'separare', from 'se-' (apart) + 'parare' (to make).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    separate ways:

    To go in different directions or pursue different paths.

    separate from:

    To be independent or not connected.

    separate the wheat from the chaff:

    To distinguish the valuable from the worthless.

    Related Words

    separation:

    The action of separating or the state of being separated.

    separator:

    An object or device that separates two things.

    separated:

    Having been divided or moved apart.

    Slang Meanings of separate

    Meaning: To ghost someone.

    Example Sentence: She just separated from her friends by ghosting them.

    Meaning: To break off a relationship.

    Example Sentence: They decided to separate after a long discussion.