compartmentalization

American  

[kuhm-pahrt-men-tl-ahy-zey-shuhn, kom-pahrt-] / kəm pɑrtˌmɛn tlˌaɪˈzeɪ ʃən, ˌkɒm pɑrt- /

noun

1. the act or process of dividing something into separate and isolated categories, sections, areas, or compartments: compartment.

   The camera bag is made from high-quality, strong material, and includes dividers for compartmentalization.

2. Psychology. the process of mentally separating or setting aside one’s incompatible or negative emotions, beliefs, or behaviors.

   Coping with trauma entails psychological defenses—such as denial or emotional compartmentalization—that are inherently isolating.

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Other Word Forms

• decompartmentalization noun

Etymology

Origin of compartmentalization

First recorded in 1920–25; compartmentaliz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

Passive measures include multiple remote exits, protected stair enclosures, compartmentalization, smoke-tight doors and interior linings that resist ignition and limit heat release.

From The Wall Street Journal

In the first months after the L.A. wildfires, which took my family’s Palisades home, I fashioned myself a master of compartmentalization.

From Los Angeles Times

So there was a compartmentalization that was extreme.

From Salon

The trick is grappling with constraints we have on information compartmentalization and how systems are built.

From Seattle Times

In the past decade or so, we as a society may even have developed an increased awareness of this self-preservation technique; Google searches for compartmentalization have been steadily increasing since 2004.

From Los Angeles Times