Definition

A situation where something is interrupted or disturbed, causing a break in the normal flow or order of things.

Example

The disruption caused by the storm led to many flight cancellations.

Conversation

Did you notice any disruption during the presentation today?

Yeah, the fire alarm went off unexpectedly.

I thought that was really annoying; it interrupted the flow.

For sure, it made it hard to focus afterward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disruption is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "rumpere" (meaning to break). The word describes the act of breaking something apart or causing a disturbance in a process or system.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that 'breaks apart' ('rumpere') — that's why disruption means causing a break or disturbance.

Visually Confused Words