Definition of disruptionnext
as in disturbance
an act or instance of the order of things being disturbed the flat tire resulted in an unfortunate disruption of the schedule for our road trip

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of disruption Henry says that cleansing too aggressively can contribute to barrier disruption as well. — Lindy Segal, Glamour, 22 Sep. 2026 But actual prices could skyrocket past that forecast to $150 a barrel or more if supply disruptions continue into next spring or if oil infrastructure suffers further damage, the bank said. — Deena Zaidi, CNBC, 22 Sep. 2026 Production disruptions and weak output in Chile, the world’s biggest producer, sent prices to record highs, with the US accumulating huge stockpiles and smelters in China forced to turn to scraps to meet that country’s industrial needs. — Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 21 Sep. 2026 United Airlines is seeing the most disruptions, with 161 flights canceled, or 6% of their schedule, and 343 delayed, or 10%. — Quinlan Bentley, Cincinnati Enquirer, 21 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disruption
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disruption
Noun
  • One study links living near new Kern County oil and gas wells to higher infection risk, while massive housing and solar construction promise more soil disturbance and airborne, infectious dust.
    — Susanne Rust Follow, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026
  • At first, Lara seems like a disturbance in Ruby’s fantasy of private election.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Though the horse was uninjured, Maher’s hard landing recalls a similar incident in 2023 when a shoulder fracture and dislocation forced him to undergo extensive surgery and miss the first four months of that season.
    — Tilly Berendt, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
  • Maddie and Avery moved back from New York to help out as their mother tried to keep Little Flower going while dealing with dislocation and a nightmarish battle with her insurance company.
    — Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disruption.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disruption. Accessed 27 Sep. 2026.

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