Definition

To reorganize a computer's data so that files are stored in a continuous manner, which helps improve performance.

Example

I need to defragment my hard drive to make it run faster.

Tense Forms

Conversation

My computer has been running really slow lately.

Have you tried to defragment the hard drive?

Not yet, but I heard it can really help with performance.

Yeah, it should speed things up if you defragment it regularly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defragment is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "fragment" (from Latin "fragmentum", meaning a piece or broken part). The word describes the process of reducing fragmentation by organizing and consolidating pieces of data.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing pieces' ('de-') that are scattered ('fragment') to make everything whole again.

Visually Confused Words