dissipate
To gradually disappear or scatter
Examples
In a meeting
“The tension in the room began to dissipate after we addressed everyone's concerns.”
Over coffee
“My motivation completely dissipated after I saw how much work was left.”
Why this word
disappear
dissipate means gradually dispersing or scattering, while disappear is general ceasing to be visible
fade
dissipate implies active dispersal into surroundings, while fade suggests gradual weakening
vanish
dissipate describes a process of scattering, while vanish suggests sudden or complete disappearance
Usage tip
Perfect for describing things that fade away naturally rather than being actively removed
Etymology
Latin: dis- (apart) + supare (throw) — 'to scatter in different directions'
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Related words
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
deteriorate
To become progressively worse over time.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
dilute
To make weaker by adding something or spreading too thin
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement
revert
To return to a previous state or practice