fragmentation

noun

frag·​men·​ta·​tion ˌfrag-mən-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce fragmentation (audio)
-ˌmen-
1
: the act or process of fragmenting or making fragmentary
2
: the state of being fragmented or fragmentary
fragmentate verb

Examples of fragmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Afp | Getty Images The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has continued to emerge as an economic winner of increasing geopolitical tensions between China and the United States, though risks from fragmentation remain, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says. Dylan Butts, CNBC, 1 Nov. 2024 When possible, select integrated tools to reduce fragmentation. Braden Yuill, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Advertisement But other industries contributed to habitat fragmentation and destruction too — including renewable energy. Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2024 This gathering comes at a critical juncture, as the world sees rising fragmentation, protectionism and strong signs of a climate crisis. Luciano Paredes, Foreign Affairs, 29 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fragmentation 

Word History

Etymology

fragment entry 2 + -ation, probably after French fragmentation

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fragmentation was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near fragmentation

Cite this Entry

“Fragmentation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragmentation. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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