dissociative
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /dɪˈsoʊʃiˌeɪtɪv/
KK: /dɪˈsoʊʃiˌeɪtɪv/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a state where a person feels disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or sense of identity.
Example
The therapist explained that dissociative symptoms can occur during traumatic experiences.
Conversation
I read an article about dissociative disorders yesterday.
Oh really? What did it say?
It explained how they can affect people's memories and sense of identity.
That sounds intense; I didn't know it could be so serious!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
detached
disconnected
separate
Antonyms
connected
integrated
unified
noun
Definition
A type of drug that causes a feeling of detachment from reality or oneself.
Example
The doctor prescribed a dissociative to help manage the patient's pain.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a dissociative drug before?
Yeah, I read that they can really affect your perception.
It's interesting how people use them for different reasons.
Root Explanation
Dissociative → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "sociative" (from Latin "sociativus", meaning to associate). The word describes a state of being that separates or disconnects from one's thoughts, feelings, or sense of identity.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'apart' ('dis-') from your usual 'associations' ('sociative') — that's why dissociative refers to a disconnection from one's normal self.
Visually Confused Words
associative
sociative
disassociate
undissociated
unassociative
semisociative
associatively