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Definition of disassociate

disassociate

/ˌdɪs.əˈsoʊ.si.eɪt/
dis · as · so · ci · ate
Adjective:disassociated
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Past Simple:disassociated
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Past Participle:disassociated
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Present Participle:disassociating
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disassociate Lexical Profile

disassociate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To disconnect, separate, or sever an association or relationship with a person, group, or concept.

Example

"The board of directors voted to publicly disassociate the charity from the controversial political campaign."

2

To experience a mental or emotional detachment from one's immediate surroundings, thoughts, or sense of identity.

Example

"During moments of overwhelming stress, he tended to disassociate from what was happening around him."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for disassociate
Antonyms
View all antonyms for disassociate

Word Nuance & Usage

"Disassociate" and "dissociate" are interchangeable in general contexts meaning to sever an association, though style guides often prefer the shorter "dissociate," which is also the standard technical term in chemistry and psychology.

• Rhymes for disassociate

• Nearby Words

disarray
disassemble
disassembly
disassociate
disassociation
disaster
disastrous

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 17th century, formed from the prefix "dis-" and "associate," or modeled after Middle French "desassocier," ultimately from Latin "associare" (to join to or unite with).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Disassociate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/disassociate
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