fragmentation

noun

frag·​men·​ta·​tion ˌfrag-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the act or process of fragmenting or making fragmentary

2

: the state of being fragmented or fragmentary

fragmentate

ˈfrag-mən-ˌtāt 

verb

Examples of fragmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Microfibre Consortium has also partnered with ZDHC to release foundational guidance and tools addressing fiber fragmentation and microfiber loss in textile manufacturing wastewater. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2026

Application security spent a decade consolidating exactly this kind of fragmentation. — Aviv Mussinger, Forbes.com, 6 Oct. 2026

Powell’s broader outlook is that persistent inflation, fragmentation, and higher capital costs will make investors more selective. — Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 6 Oct. 2026

Brazil’s internal fragmentation hinders international cooperation, too. — Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

fragment entry 2 + -ation, probably after French fragmentation

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fragmentation

• fragmentation bomb
• fragmentation grenade

Rhymes for fragmentation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation