Definition

To become liquid or to break apart into smaller parts, often disappearing or losing shape.

Example

The sugar will dissolve in hot water.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever watched ice dissolve in a warm drink?

Yeah, it’s interesting to see how quickly it changes.

Right? It’s like it just disappears completely.

Exactly, it’s almost magical how it dissolves.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A technique in film or video where one image gradually fades out while another fades in, creating a smooth transition between scenes.

Example

The director used a dissolve to transition from the sunset to the night sky in the film.

Conversation

Did you notice how the film used a dissolve effect between those two scenes?

Yeah, it was really cool how it blended them together.

I think a good dissolve can really enhance the storytelling.

Definition

To cause a solid to mix with a liquid until it becomes part of the liquid.

Example

When you add sugar to tea, it will dissolve and make the tea sweet.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how quickly the sugar dissolves in hot water?

Yeah, it’s amazing how it just disappears!

I wonder if it would dissolve just as fast in cold water.

Root Explanation

Dissolve → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "solvere" (meaning to loosen or release). The word describes the act of loosening or breaking apart a substance, typically in a liquid.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'loosened apart' — 'dis-' means apart, and 'solvere' means to loosen. This helps you remember that dissolve means to break down a substance in a liquid.

Visually Confused Words