fragmentation

noun

frag·​men·​ta·​tion ˌfrag-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the act or process of fragmenting or making fragmentary

2

: the state of being fragmented or fragmentary

fragmentate

ˈfrag-mən-ˌtāt 

verb

Examples of fragmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This fragmentation is particularly problematic for pan-European blockchain projects, which must navigate a maze of different legal, cultural, and technological standards. —Chrissa McFarlane, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025

In the series, CBS News correspondent Jed Duvall is seen holding the M67 fragmentation hand grenade during a TV news segment. —Olivia B. Waxman, Time, 30 Apr. 2025

Political polarization and media fragmentation defy easy answers, and better equipping the public to reject dubious claims will likely require long-term educational investments in media literacy and critical thinking skills. —Roseanne McManus, Foreign Affairs, 28 Apr. 2025

Given the fragmentation of the Android ecosystem, however, many Android devices remain vulnerable. —ArsTechnica, 28 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

fragment entry 2 + -ation, probably after French fragmentation

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fragmentation

• fragmentation bomb
• fragmentation grenade

Rhymes for fragmentation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation