verb
disrupt
dis-RUPT/dɪsˈrʌpt/
Interrupt the normal course of an activity or process.
The loose dog disrupts the table-tennis game by knocking over the net.
Etymology
The Latin pieces mean “break apart,” an image extended to interrupting the continuity of an activity. The English verb may instead have been formed from disruption, which contains the same pieces.
In context
its potential to disrupt the global energy economy. Because if Joseph Pap's engine really worked, it would make oil, coal, and gas completely obsolete.
More examples
- Heavy snow disrupted train service across the region.
- Please don't disrupt the meeting by talking over others.
- Road construction is disrupting deliveries to local stores.
Forms
disrupt · disrupts · disrupted · disrupting
disruption noun — An interruption of normal activity or order.
disruptive adjective — Causing interruptions in normal activity or order.