Meaning & Definition of word "Disrupt"
to
Disrupt
/dɪsˈrʌpt/
verb:
- 1. To interrupt the normal course or continuity of something.
- Example: The construction work will disrupt traffic on Main Street for several months.
- 2. To throw into confusion or disorder.
- Example: The heavy rain disrupted the schedule for the outdoor event.
- 3. To break apart or cause to break apart.
- Example: The explosion disrupted the power supply to the entire region.
- 4. To create a significant change in a traditional industry or market.
- Example: The new technology has the potential to disrupt the retail banking sector.
Etymology
Late Latin disruptus, from dis- 'apart' + rumpere 'to break'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
disrupt the flow:
to interrupt the smooth progression of something
disrupt business as usual:
to disturb the normal operations of a business
disruptive innovation:
an innovation that significantly alters or disrupts the industry
Related Words
interruption:
the act of stopping something temporarily.
disturbance:
an interruption of the peace and quiet.
breakdown:
a failure or an interruption in a system.
Slang Meanings of disrupt
Meaning: to throw a wrench in the works
Example Sentence: His last-minute idea really threw a wrench in the works.
Meaning: to throw off
Example Sentence: The sudden rainstorm threw me off my schedule.