Disappear

Definition

Disappear means to cease to be visible or to vanish from sight. It can also refer to the process of something ceasing to exist or be present in a particular place or situation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪsəˈpɪr/
• Respelling: dis-uh-PEER

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪsəˈpɪə/
• Respelling: dis-uh-PEER

Etymology

The word "disappear" originates from the Latin prefix "dis-" meaning "apart" or "away," and the Old French word "apareir," meaning "to appear." It entered Middle English in the late 15th century with the sense of vanishing from sight or ceasing to exist.

Derivatives

• Disappearance (noun)
• Disappearing (adjective)
• Reappear (verb)
• Non-disappearing (adjective)
• Disappearer (noun)

Synonyms

• Vanish
• Evaporate
• Fade

Antonyms

• Appear
• Materialize
• Show

Usage

The verb "disappear" is frequently used to describe something or someone vanishing from sight or ceasing to exist. For example, "The magician made the coin disappear." It is also applied in broader contexts, such as describing the extinction of species or the loss of a trend or practice.

Related Terms

• Evaporate: To disappear gradually, especially to vanish from sight or existence.
• Extinct: A state where a species or phenomenon no longer exists.
• Obliterate: To destroy or wipe out entirely.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To cease to be visible; vanish from sight: Refers to something or someone no longer being perceptible to the eye.
  • Example: "He watched the ship disappear over the horizon."
• To cease to exist or be present in a place or situation: Implies the end or removal of something from existence or availability.
  • Example: "Many species have disappeared due to habitat loss."