disruption

noun

dis·​rup·​tion dis-ˈrəp-shən 

plural disruptions

: the act or process of disrupting something : a break or interruption in the normal course or continuation of some activity, process, etc.

disruption of sleep

disruptions in service

a process that has continued without disruption

Throughout the history of medicine, health has been seen as a condition of equilibrium and illness as the disruption of a balanced state.

—David Mechanic

By 1925 most countries had recovered from the economic disruptions caused by the Great War of 1914-18.

—John A. Garraty

Synonyms

• derangement
• dislocation
• disturbance
• upset

Examples of disruption in a Sentence

the flat tire resulted in an unfortunate disruption of the schedule for our road trip

Recent Examples on the Web

With a career defined by navigating industry disruption in the creative fields, Scott understands the stakes better than most. —Alexander Puutio, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025

Having virtual care options at the ready can help ensure care continuity during disruptions, according to Andy Puterbaugh, president of hospitals and health systems at Teladoc Health. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 22 Feb. 2025

The droughts in Brazil and Vietnam combined with disruptions in international shipping have made coffee beans scarce. —Peter S. Goodman, New York Times, 22 Feb. 2025

More:Justin Trudeau needles Donald Trump after Canada beats USA in 4 Nations Face-Off final The slim margin gives GOP holdouts power to cause major disruptions. —Riley Beggin, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disruption

• corruption
• eruption
• irruption
• incorruption
• interruption

Medical Definition

disruption

noun

dis·​rup·​tion dis-ˈrəp-shən 

: the act or process of breaking apart or rupturing

bandaged her leg tightly to prevent disruption of the partly healed wound

disrupt

dis-ˈrəpt 

transitive verb