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 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.
In that context, dashboards support decision-making rather than compensating for fragmentation. Scott Fulton, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Conversely, the value and middle-upper segments of the market face intense fragmentation and strategic hurdles. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 10 June 2026 Geopolitical fragmentation, industrial policy, infrastructure constraints, and AI are all reshaping markets at the same time. Carolyn Dewar, Fortune, 9 June 2026 Scraps make up the collage through which our lives are quilted together while at the same time reminding us that fragmentation is our legacy. Literary Hub, 8 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fragmentation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragmentation. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

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