disintegrate
UK: dɪsˈɪntɪɡreɪt | US: dɪsˈɪntəɡreɪt
vt./vi. to break into small parts or lose cohesion
vt./vi. to undergo decomposition or destruction
The word "disintegrate" combines the Latin prefix dis- (meaning "apart" or "reverse") with integr- (from integer, meaning "whole") and the verb-forming suffix -ate. Originally, integer in Latin referred to something untouched or complete. Over time, disintegrate evolved to describe the process of breaking something whole into fragments, emphasizing the reversal of unity.
The old building began to disintegrate after years of neglect.
Over time, plastic waste can disintegrate into microplastics.
The coalition started to disintegrate due to internal conflicts.
Some materials disintegrate faster under extreme heat.
Without proper care, the manuscript will disintegrate.