dissociation
UK: dɪˌsəʊʃiˈeɪʃən | US: dɪˌsoʊʃiˈeɪʃən
n. the act of disconnecting or separating something from a larger whole
n. (psychology) a mental process where thoughts, identity, or memories become detached from normal consciousness
n. (chemistry) the splitting of molecules into smaller particles or ions
The word "dissociation" originates from Latin dissociatio, combining dis- (indicating reversal or separation) and sociare (to unite or associate). The root soci- reflects connection, as seen in words like "society" or "social." Over time, the prefix dis- inverted this meaning to emphasize separation. In psychology, the term evolved in the 19th century to describe the fragmentation of consciousness, while in chemistry, it refers to molecular breakdown. The morphemes logically progress from "union" to "undoing union."
The dissociation of ammonia in water produces ammonium ions.
Trauma survivors may experience dissociation as a coping mechanism.
The artist described a feeling of dissociation from reality during intense creativity.
In physics, dissociation energy measures the bond strength of molecules.
Political dissociation from the controversial policy weakened the party's unity.