collision

UK: kəˈlɪʒ(ə)n | US: kəˈlɪʒ(ə)n

Definition
  1. n. an instance of two or more objects striking violently together

  2. n. a conflict or clash between opposing ideas, interests, or forces

  3. n. (Physics) an event where particles or bodies interact, often resulting in a change of momentum

Structure
col <together>lis <strike>ion <noun suffix>col <together>lis <strike>ion <noun suffix>
Etymology

collision = col<together> + lis<strike> + ion<noun suffix>

  • col<together>: From Latin com- (a variant of con-), meaning "together" or "with."
  • lis<strike>: From Latin laedere (past participle laisus), meaning "to strike" or "to injure."
  • ion<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns indicating an action or process.

Etymology Origin:
The word collision originates from Latin collisio (a striking together), derived from collidere (col- + laedere). It entered English in the 15th century, initially describing physical impacts and later expanding metaphorically to conflicts or clashes. The morphemes reflect the core idea of forceful contact—col- (together) + lis (strike)—logically combining to depict a violent meeting.

Examples
  1. The collision between the two cars caused significant damage.

  2. Scientists study particle collisions in accelerators to understand fundamental physics.

  3. Their disagreement led to a collision of opinions during the meeting.

  4. The asteroid's collision with Earth altered the planet's climate.

  5. A collision of cultural values often sparks debates in globalized societies.