dislocation

noun

dis·​lo·​ca·​tion ˌdis-(ˌ)lō-ˈkā-shən 

-lə-

: the act of dislocating : the state of being dislocated: such as

a

: displacement of one or more bones at a joint : luxation

b

: a discontinuity in the otherwise normal lattice structure of a crystal

c

: disruption of an established order

Synonyms

• derangement
• disruption
• disturbance
• upset

Examples of dislocation in a Sentence

the slightest dislocation in her daily routine bothered the elderly woman

Recent Examples on the Web

During the pandemic, the Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom temporarily deviated from basing state aid on attendance, given the massive dislocation of school closures. —Dan Walters, Orange County Register, 12 Sep. 2024

Once again, Trump is responding to demand signals from the electorate, seeking to appeal to the many Americans who have suffered economic dislocation as a result of automation and free trade. —Charles Kupchan, Foreign Affairs, 9 Sep. 2024

Fractures and dislocations require immediate medical attention to determine whether a brace or surgery is needed. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes, 8 Sep. 2024

The Israeli onslaught in Gaza has caused massive dislocation, destruction, and suffering, conditions likely to persist for some time. —Khaled Elgindy, Foreign Affairs, 18 Dec. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dislocation

noun

dis·​lo·​ca·​tion ˌdis-(ˌ)lō-ˈkā-shən 

: the act of dislocating : the state of being dislocated

especially : displacement of one or more bones at a joint

Medical Definition

dislocation

noun

dis·​lo·​ca·​tion ˌdis-(ˌ)lō-ˈkā-shən, -lə- 

: displacement of one or more bones at a joint : luxation