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 of disruption

• disturbance
• dislocation

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

These ecosystems strengthen workforce capability, expand digital and AI literacy, encourage continuous learning, and build resilience amid ongoing disruption. —Michael Edmondson, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Executives attributed part of the slowdown to geopolitical disruption in the Middle East and weaker tourist spending in Europe. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 11 June 2026

The experience highlighted the value of acting fast during travel disruptions, choosing flexible booking options, and embracing unexpected destinations. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 11 June 2026

Other selective institutions that dropped testing around the same time — many for reasons related to pandemic disruptions — have reversed course. —Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026

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