dissimilation

noun

dis·​sim·​i·​la·​tion (ˌ)di-ˌsi-mə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce dissimilation (audio)
: the change or omission of one of two identical or closely related sounds in a word

Word History

Etymology

dissimil(ate) + -ation

First Known Use

circa 1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dissimilation was circa 1874

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dissimilation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dissimilation. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

dissimilation

noun
dis·​sim·​i·​la·​tion (ˌ)dis-ˌim-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce dissimilation (audio)
dissimilate transitive verb
dissimilated; dissimilating
dissimilative adjective
dissimilatory adjective
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