# disintegrate

**Pronunciation:** /dɪsˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ · dis-IN-tih-grayt

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** verb

## Meaning

To break apart into small pieces or components as a result of impact or decay.

## Examples

- The ancient manuscript began to disintegrate when exposed to light.
- If the asteroid hits the planet, it will disintegrate on impact.
- Over time, the plastic will disintegrate into tiny microparticles.

## Synonyms

- crumble — To break into small fragments, often due to age or decay.
- decay — To rot or decompose, gradually falling apart.
- decompose — To break down into simpler parts or substances, especially by the action of bacteria.
- fragment — To break into pieces.

## Antonyms

- integrate — To combine one thing with another so that they become a whole.
- unite — To bring together or form one union.
- coalesce — To come together and form one mass or whole.

## Common patterns

- disintegrate into — To break apart and become a specific substance or form. — The cells will disintegrate into waste products.
- disintegrate completely — To break apart entirely, with no pieces remaining. — The spacecraft was designed to disintegrate completely upon re-entry.
- disintegrate rapidly — To break apart quickly. — The fragile structure began to disintegrate rapidly under the storm's force.

## Collocations

- disintegrate into — The old wooden chair began to disintegrate into dust.
- disintegrate completely — The meteorite will disintegrate completely as it enters the atmosphere.
- disintegrate rapidly — The ice shelf is disintegrating rapidly due to global warming.

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