disruption

noun

dis·​rup·​tion dis-ˈrəp-shən 

plural disruptions

: the act or process of disrupting something : a break or interruption in the normal course or continuation of some activity, process, etc.

disruption of sleep

disruptions in service

a process that has continued without disruption

Throughout the history of medicine, health has been seen as a condition of equilibrium and illness as the disruption of a balanced state.

—David Mechanic

By 1925 most countries had recovered from the economic disruptions caused by the Great War of 1914-18.

—John A. Garraty

Synonyms of disruption

• disturbance
• dislocation

Examples of disruption in a Sentence

the flat tire resulted in an unfortunate disruption of the schedule for our road trip

Recent Examples on the Web

New transparency tools aim to help travelers understand disruptions and reduce frustration during delays and cancellations. —Zach Wichter, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026

This has led to the biggest oil supply disruption in history, according to the International Energy Agency. —Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2026

Adding localized pollution and physical disruptions from closer boat traffic will result in scientifically verifiable higher mortality rates for these restoration efforts. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026

The conflict has left more than 3,000 dead and caused major disruptions to the world’s supply of oil and natural gas. —Jon Gambrell, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disruption

• corruption
• eruption
• irruption
• incorruption
• interruption

Medical Definition

disruption

noun

dis·​rup·​tion dis-ˈrəp-shən 

: the act or process of breaking apart or rupturing

bandaged her leg tightly to prevent disruption of the partly healed wound

disrupt

dis-ˈrəpt 

transitive verb