fragmentary

adjective

frag·​men·​tary ˈfrag-mən-ˌter-ē How to pronounce fragmentary (audio)
: consisting of fragments : incomplete
fragmentary evidence
a fragmentary account
fragmentarily adverb
fragmentariness noun

Examples of fragmentary in a Sentence

discovering fragmentary remains of primitive animals the historical record of this pharaoh's life and reign is fragmentary at best
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.
Using a fragmentary, collage-like approach that unites characters from different eras, from the turn of the 20th century to the post–World World II era to the years of GDR rule and on to the present, Schilinski treats history like a constant haunting. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 5 Aug. 2025 This fragmentary plot is haunted by disconcerting echoes of the second World War and the Holocaust. Celia Bell july 22, Literary Hub, 22 July 2025 But while scientists have since identified other fragmentary remains, it’s never been enough to fully put a face to the name—despite the fact that Denisovans passed on some of their genes to modern day Melanesian people. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 June 2025 The fishless tanks, which emit white noise and are bathed in the violet lighting of 1980s Hong Kong, encourage visitors to reflect on the fragmentary nature of time and memory. Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragmentary

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fragmentary was in 1611

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Cite this Entry

“Fragmentary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragmentary. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

fragmentary

adjective
frag·​men·​tary ˈfrag-mən-ˌter-ē How to pronounce fragmentary (audio)
: made up of fragments : incomplete
a fragmentary report

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