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

• disruption
• disturbance

Examples of dislocation in a Sentence

the slightest dislocation in her daily routine bothered the elderly woman

Recent Examples on the Web

Geopolitical dislocation could involve the biggest costs of all. —Clive Crook, Twin Cities, 29 July 2025

Capturing the Zeitgeist – its violence, and sense of dislocation – the WIP selection is alos a sign of industry times. —John Hopewell, Variety, 29 July 2025

Cultivating Your Volunteer Ecosystem As the lines between traditional employment and purpose-driven work blur, especially in the wake of economic dislocation, the nonprofit sector has a unique opportunity to lead the way. —Leslye Moore, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025

These obstacles include visa restrictions, inadequate job platforms, and social dislocation caused by the need to migrate for work. —Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 10 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dislocation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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