dispersal
Americannoun
noun
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the act of dispersing or the condition of being dispersed
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the spread of animals, plants, or seeds to new areas
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of dispersal
Explanation
Dispersal is the act of spreading something around. This could be positive (like a dispersal of money) or negative (like a dispersal of a crowd because of a bomb). If you know that dispersing is when something spreads out or separates, then you have a headstart to understanding dispersal. Dispersal causes something to be diffused or disseminated, like the dispersal of seeds in a garden. A strong wind could cause the dispersal of someone’s homework. A tear gas bomb causes the dispersal of tear gas, which in turn will cause the dispersal of a crowd. Anytime something is spreading out or becoming widespread, there's a dispersal at play.
Vocabulary lists containing dispersal
Academic Vocabulary, Literary Terms, and Vocabulary from Readings, Unit 5
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Part 1 Vocabulary (Unit 4)
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The attack came just a few days after it was confirmed that the dispersal zone powers would be extended into December.
From BBC ● Oct. 3, 2026
To be sure, the president and the executive branch are charged with lawfully implementing congressional directives about the dispersal of appropriated funds.
From Slate ● Sep. 8, 2026
Faisal Umar manages a 24-hour convenience store on the street, which sits in the heart of the dispersal zone.
From BBC ● Aug. 17, 2026
More generally, female dispersal and the tendency for males to remain in their natal group also constitute a predominant pattern among the great apes.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 7, 2026
Barley has the further advantage that its genetics and morphology permit it to evolve quickly the useful changes in seed dispersal and germination inhibition that we discussed in the preceding chapter.
From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond
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