fragmentation

noun

frag·​men·​ta·​tion ˌfrag-mən-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce fragmentation (audio)
-ˌmen-
1
: the act or process of fragmenting or making fragmentary
2
: the state of being fragmented or fragmentary
fragmentate
ˈfrag-mən-ˌtāt How to pronounce fragmentation (audio)
verb

Examples of fragmentation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Meanwhile, the deepening fragmentation and disorder in the Middle East caused by the war are seen in China as an opportunity to make new diplomatic inroads in the region. — Mark Sappenfield, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026 The emergence of television forced Hollywood to adapt in the 1950s, while the proliferation of cable and satellite channels in the ’80s and ’90s prompted fears that fragmentation would undermine quality. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026 It is typically armed with a 110-pound high explosive/fragmentation/incendiary warhead and guided by jam-resistant satellite navigation. — David Hambling, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Which isn’t to say that co-viewing has entirely died out in the age of hyper-fragmentation, as big-time sporting events still have the power to fill a living room. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragmentation

Word History

Etymology

fragment entry 2 + -ation, probably after French fragmentation

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fragmentation was in 1881

Phrases Containing fragmentation

Rhymes for fragmentation

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Browse Nearby Words

fragmentate
fragmentation
fragmentation bomb
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Cite this Entry

“Fragmentation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragmentation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on fragmentation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fragmentation

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