disposal
disposal Lexical Profile
disposal Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The action or process of throwing away, getting rid of, or destroying unwanted materials or waste.
"Proper disposal of hazardous chemicals is strictly regulated to prevent soil contamination."
The state of being available to be used, managed, or directed by someone as needed (especially in the phrase 'at one's disposal').
"The visiting researchers had the university's entire archival collection at their disposal."
The sale, transfer, or settlement of property, business assets, or financial holdings.
"The corporation announced the disposal of several underperforming overseas subsidiaries."
North American An electrically powered device installed under a kitchen sink drain that shreds food waste into small pieces so it can pass through plumbing.
"Make sure no silverware has fallen into the sink before turning on the disposal."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'disposal' with 'disposition': 'disposal' refers to the act of getting rid of something or having it available for use (as in 'at your disposal'), whereas 'disposition' refers to a person's inherent temperament, inclination, or the formal settlement of a legal matter.
• Rhymes for disposal
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the mid-16th century from the verb 'dispose' plus the noun-forming suffix '-al'. 'Dispose' derives from Old French 'disposer', influenced by Latin 'disponere' ('to arrange' or 'to put in order').