Dismissal

Definition

Dismissal refers to the act of removing someone from employment, rejecting an idea, or discharging someone from a duty or obligation. It commonly refers to the termination of a person’s job or the rejection of a case in legal contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈmɪsəl/
• Respelling: diss-MIS-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈmɪsəl/
• Respelling: diss-MIS-uhl

The pronunciation of "dismissal" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "dismissal" is derived from the Latin word "dismissus," the past participle of "dimittere," which means "to send away" or "release." It entered the English language in the 15th century, maintaining its core meaning of releasing someone from a position or duty.

Derivatives

• Dismiss (verb)
• Dismissing (adjective)
• Dismissive (adjective)
• Undismissed (adjective)
• Dismissedly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Termination
• Rejection
• Discharge

Antonyms

• Appointment
• Acceptance
• Engagement

Usage

The term "dismissal" is frequently used in professional, legal, and academic settings. In employment, it refers to the act of firing or terminating someone’s job. In legal contexts, it is used to describe the rejection of a case or charge. It can also describe the casual rejection of an idea or argument in conversation or debate.

Related Terms

• Discharge: To officially release someone from a duty, responsibility, or job.
• Expulsion: The act of forcing someone to leave a place or position.
• Termination: The act of bringing something, such as employment, to an end.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of removing someone from employment: Refers to the official termination of an employee’s job.
  • Example: "The company issued a formal notice of dismissal to the employee."
• The rejection of an idea or proposal: Describes the act of rejecting or refusing to consider something.
  • Example: "The professor's dismissal of the theory was based on a lack of evidence."
• The discharge of a legal case: Refers to the formal rejection of a legal case or charge.
  • Example: "The court's dismissal of the lawsuit ended the legal battle."