Meaning & Definition of word "Separation"

Separation

/ˌsɛpəˈreɪʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The action or state of moving or being moved apart.
    • Example: The separation of the two countries occurred after years of conflict.
  • 2. The condition of being apart or disunited.
    • Example: After the separation from his partner, he found it difficult to adjust.
  • 3. The division of a group into distinct parts or categories.
    • Example: The separation of classes in the educational system has been a topic of much debate.
  • 4. The act of distinguishing or creating space between two or more entities.
    • Example: There must be a clear separation between church and state in a democratic society.
  • 5. A legal term indicating the formal ending of a marriage, while not dissolving it.
    • Example: They filed for a legal separation to allow for some time apart before considering divorce.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin separatio(n-), from separare ‘to separate’.

Common Phrases and Expressions

separation anxiety:

a psychological condition where an individual experiences excessive fear or distress when separated from a significant person.

separation of powers:

a model for governing a state, typically dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches.

emotional separation:

a state in which individuals disconnect emotionally from each other.

Related Words

separate:

to set or keep apart.

segregation:

the action or state of setting someone or something apart from others.

detachment:

the state of being objective or aloof.

division:

the action of separating something into parts or the process of being separated.

Slang Meanings of separation

Meaning: going through a split

Example Sentence: After the separation, he felt free but also lost.

Meaning: break up

Example Sentence: They had a tough time after the separation, but they moved on.