verb

disappear

To stop being visible or present.

The mountains disappear from view as thick clouds roll in.

Etymology

Appear, from Latin apparere, means to come into view. Dis- reverses that movement, so disappear describes passing out of sight or ceasing to be present.

More examples

  • My keys disappear whenever I need them most.
  • The stain disappeared after I washed the shirt.
  • Small bookstores are disappearing from our neighborhood.

Forms

disappear · disappears · disappeared · disappearing

disappearance noun — The act of becoming unseen or absent.

Similar words

vanish
Often suggests disappearing suddenly, completely, or without explanation.
fade
Emphasizes gradually becoming less visible rather than abruptly disappearing.