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

• derangement
• dislocation
• disturbance
• upset

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

CFOs can also model different market conditions — such as inflation scenarios or supply chain disruptions — to assess potential revenue and profitability impacts. —Robert Kramer, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025

Since Europe depends heavily on U.S.-made components and materials, this could lead to supply chain disruptions, longer lead times, and higher costs. —Andrew Jones, Space.com, 9 Apr. 2025

The airline industry has been hamstrung by a perfect storm of challenges over recent weeks, from labor shortages and supply disruptions to rising fuel prices. —Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025

However, Venezuelan advocates recommend re-registering as soon as possible to avoid any potential disruptions in case an unfavorable ruling halts the registration process. —Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2025

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