fragmentation

noun

frag·​men·​ta·​tion ˌfrag-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the act or process of fragmenting or making fragmentary

2

: the state of being fragmented or fragmentary

fragmentate

ˈfrag-mən-ˌtāt 

verb

Examples of fragmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For policymakers and regulators, the coalition suggested establishing policy platforms that bring together various players—like governments, industry actors, standards setters and civil society—to co-develop fair and credible LCA frameworks while ensuring alignment, not fragmentation. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 13 Oct. 2025

This fragmentation causes consumer confusion and creates an underutilized charging infrastructure. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2025

However, concluding a deal with its militarily superior neighbor risks the further fragmentation of Syria and an entrenched violation of its sovereignty. —Mireille Rebeiz, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2025

The political fragmentation after the July 2024 snap election caused this instability, with opposing political blocs emerging in the two rounds of voting that fell far from an absolute majority. —Charlotte Reed, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

fragment entry 2 + -ation, probably after French fragmentation

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fragmentation

• fragmentation bomb
• fragmentation grenade

Rhymes for fragmentation

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