disrupt

dis-rupt · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To interrupt the normal progress or activity of something.

  2. 2.

    To drastically alter or destroy the structure of something.

  3. 3.

    To throw into confusion or disorder.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Disrupt the market — To radically change how business is done in an industry.
  • •
    Disrupt the status quo — To challenge or change established norms.
  • •
    Disruptive technology — Innovation that significantly alters industries.

Related words

Antonyms: maintain, preserve, stabilize
See also: disruption, disruptive, interrupt
Synonyms: disturb, interrupt, unsettle, upset

Etymology

From Latin disruptus, past participle of disrumpere ("to break apart"), from dis- ("apart") + rumpere ("to break"). Entered English in the mid-17th century.