First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1dissolve
verb dis·solve \di-ˈzälv, -ˈzȯlv also -ˈzäv or -ˈzȯv\
of something solid : to mix with a liquid and become part of the liquid
: to officially end (something, such as a marriage, organization, or agreement)
: to end or disappear or cause (something) to end or disappear
Full Definition of DISSOLVE
transitive verb
1
a : to cause to disperse or disappear : destroy <do not dissolve and deface the laws of charity — Francis Bacon> b : to separate into component parts : disintegrate c : to bring to an end : terminate <dissolve parliament> d : annul <dissolve an injunction>
2
4
: to clear up <dissolve a problem>
intransitive verb
1
2
a : to become fluid : melt b : to pass into solution c : to be overcome emotionally <dissolved into tears> d : to resolve itself as if by dissolution <hate dissolved into fear> e : to change by a dissolve <the scene dissolves to a Victorian parlor>
— dis·solv·able \-ˈzäl-və-bəl, -ˈzȯl-\ adjective
— dis·sol·vent \-ˈzäl-vənt, -ˈzȯl-\ noun or adjective
— dis·solv·er noun
See dissolve defined for English-language learners
See dissolve defined for kids
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Origin of DISSOLVE
Middle English, from Latin dissolvere, from dis- + solvere to loosen — more at solve
2dissolve
noun
Definition of DISSOLVE
: a gradual superimposing of one motion-picture or television shot upon another on a screen
First Known Use of DISSOLVE
1916
DISSOLVE[2] Defined for Kids
dissolve
verb dis·solve \di-ˈzälv\
dis·solveddis·solv·ing
Definition of DISSOLVE for Kids
1
: to become part of a liquid <Sugar dissolves in water.>
2
: to bring to an end : terminate <The businessmen dissolved their partnership.>
3
: to fade away as if by melting or breaking up <His anger quickly dissolved.>
4
: to be overcome by a strong feeling <He dissolved into tears.>
Medical Dictionary
dissolve
verb dis·solve \diz-ˈälv, -ˈȯlv\
dis·solveddis·solv·ing
Medical Definition of DISSOLVE
transitive verb
1
: to cause to pass into solution <dissolve sugar in water>
2
: to cause to melt or liquefy
intransitive verb
1
: to become fluid
2
: to pass into solution
—dis·solv·able \-ˈäl-və-bəl, -ˈȯl-\ adjective
—dis·solv·er noun
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