dilution

noun

di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən 

də-

1

: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted

2

: something (such as a solution) that is diluted

3

: a lessening of real value (as of equity) by a decrease in relative worth

specifically : a decrease of per share value of common stock by an increase in the total number of shares

Examples of dilution in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

German automakers were the first to break ranks and demand a dilution of the CO2 rules. —Neil Winton, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024

This dilution is then used in place of plain water going forward, with all other aspects of plant care being the same. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 27 Nov. 2024

The company acknowledges the risk of dilution to existing shareholders if a merger is completed. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 12 Nov. 2024

After Elfenbein’s recommendation, Miami motioned to amend its complaint and withdraw the dilution claim. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Late Latin dīlūtiōn-, dīlūtiō, from Latin dīluere "to wash away, dissolve, make thinner by mixing with water" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at dilute entry 1

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

dilution

noun

di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən 

də-

1

: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted

2

: something (as a solution) that is diluted

Medical Definition

dilution

noun

di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən, də- 

1

: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted

2

: something (as a solution) that is diluted

Legal Definition

dilution

noun

di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən, də- 

1

: a lessening of real value (as of equity) by a decrease in relative worth

specifically : a decrease of the value per share of common stock caused by an increase in the total number of shares

2

: a lessening of the value of a trademark that is caused by use of the mark by another and that creates potential confusion on the part of the consumer

3

: a weakening of the voting rights of a group of citizens (as a minority) because the representatives they elect have no greater legislative power than the representatives elected by smaller voting groups