Meaning & Definition of word "Separate"

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.