dissociation

dis·so·ci·a·tion  (d-ss-shn, -sh-)

n.

1. The act of dissociating or the condition of having been dissociated.

2. Chemistry

a. The process by which the action of a solvent or a change in physical condition, as in pressure or temperature, causes a molecule to split into simpler groups of atoms, single atoms, or ions.

b. The separation of an electrolyte into ions of opposite charge.

3. Psychiatry A psychological defense mechanism in which specific, anxiety-provoking thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations are separated from the rest of the psyche.

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dissociation  (d-ss-shn)

The separation of a substance into two or more simpler substances, or of a molecule into atoms or ions, by the action of heat or a chemical process. Dissociation is usually reversible.

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	dissociation - the act of removing from association separation - the act of dividing or disconnecting
	2.	dissociation - a state in which some integrated part of a person's life becomes separated from the rest of the personality and functions independently disassociation mental condition, mental state, psychological condition, psychological state - (psychology) a mental condition in which the qualities of a state are relatively constant even though the state itself may be dynamic; "a manic state" compartmentalisation, compartmentalization - a mild state of dissociation dissociative disorder - dissociation so severe that the usually integrated functions of consciousness and perception of self break down
	3.	dissociation - (chemistry) the temporary or reversible process in which a molecule or ion is broken down into smaller molecules or ions chemical science, chemistry - the science of matter; the branch of the natural sciences dealing with the composition of substances and their properties and reactions chemical action, chemical change, chemical process - (chemistry) any process determined by the atomic and molecular composition and structure of the substances involved

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dissociation

noun separation, break, division, distancing, divorce, isolation, segregation, detachment, severance, disengagement, disconnection, disunion