Dismiss

Definition

Dismiss is a verb that means to send someone away, remove from consideration, or to reject as unworthy of attention. It is often used in contexts involving employment, ideas, and judicial decisions.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈmɪs/
• Respelling: dis-MIS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈmɪs/
• Respelling: dis-MIS

Etymology

The word "dismiss" originates from the Latin "dimittere," meaning "to send away" or "let go," formed from "dis-" (apart) and "mittere" (to send). It entered Middle English with similar meanings, including "to send away" and "release."

Derivatives

• Dismissal (noun)
• Dismissive (adjective)
• Dismissively (adverb)
• Redismiss (verb)
• Undismissed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Reject
• Disregard
• Remove

Antonyms

• Consider
• Accept
• Acknowledge

Usage

The verb "dismiss" is used in contexts where a person, idea, or topic is removed or disregarded. For example, "The manager decided to dismiss the employee." It is also applied to court cases that are rejected or ended without further consideration.

Related Terms

• Expel: To force someone to leave a place.
• Exclude: To deny access or inclusion.
• Terminate: To bring something to an end.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To send someone away or permit them to leave: Refers to formally allowing or instructing a person to leave a place.
  • Example: "The teacher dismissed the class at the end of the period."
• To reject or disregard as unworthy of consideration: Implies choosing not to acknowledge or consider an idea, opinion, or issue.
  • Example: "She dismissed the rumors as untrue."
• To formally end employment: Describes the act of terminating someone’s job or position.
  • Example: "The company had to dismiss several employees due to budget cuts."