Dissolve

Definition

Dissolve refers to the process of a substance becoming incorporated into a liquid and forming a solution. It can also mean to disband or bring something to an end, such as dissolving an organization, agreement, or relationship.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈzɑːlv/
• Respelling: dih-ZOLV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈzɒlv/
• Respelling: dih-ZOLV

The pronunciation of "dissolve" is slightly different in American and British English, mainly in the vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "dissolve" comes from the Latin word "dissolvere," meaning "to loosen" or "to break apart," from "dis-" (apart) and "solvere" (to loosen or release). The term entered Middle English in the 14th century, carrying both the physical sense of dissolving a substance in liquid and the figurative sense of breaking something apart or ending it.

Derivatives

• Dissolution (noun)
• Dissolvable (adjective)
• Dissolvent (noun/adjective)
• Dissolver (noun)
• Undissolved (adjective)

Synonyms

• Melt
• Disband
• Disintegrate

Antonyms

• Solidify
• Coagulate
• Form

Usage

The word "dissolve" is used in both scientific and everyday contexts. In chemistry, it refers to the process of a solute mixing with a solvent to form a solution. In social and legal contexts, it can refer to ending a partnership, marriage, contract, or organization. The word is also used in media, especially in film, to describe a transition effect where one image fades out as another fades in.

Related Terms

• Solution: A liquid mixture where a substance is uniformly distributed within the solvent.
• Disband: To break up or disperse an organization or group.
• Evaporate: The process of turning from liquid into vapor.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make a solid mix with a liquid to form a solution: Refers to the process where a solid becomes part of a liquid.
  • Example: "The sugar dissolved quickly in the hot water."
• To disband or bring something to an end: Refers to the act of ending a relationship, organization, or contract.
  • Example: "The company decided to dissolve the partnership after five years."
• To gradually fade away: Often used in the context of film transitions or emotional states.
  • Example: "The scene dissolved into the next, creating a smooth transition."