disappear

UK: ˌdɪsəˈpɪə | US: ˌdɪsəˈpɪr

Definition

  1. vi. to cease to be visible; vanish from sight

  2. vi. to cease to exist or be in use

Structure
dis <away, opposite>appear <become visible>
Etymology

The word "disappear" combines the prefix dis- (from Latin, meaning "away" or "opposite") with the verb appear (from Latin apparere, meaning "to become visible"). The fusion reflects a logical negation: appear (to come into view) + dis- (reversal) = "to vanish from view." Over time, its meaning expanded to include ceasing to exist or fading from use.

Examples

  1. The magician made the rabbit disappear in front of the audience.

  2. Sunlight caused the fog to disappear quickly.

  3. Many ancient traditions disappear as societies modernize.

  4. Her smile disappeared when she heard the bad news.

  5. The documents mysteriously disappeared from the desk.