Definitions

disperse

[dih-spurs] / dɪˈspɜrs /

VERB

distribute; scatter

Synonyms

STRONGEST

break up circulate diffuse disappear disband discharge dislodge dispel dissipate dissolve scatter separate spray spread vanish

STRONG

banish besprinkle broadcast deal disburse dismiss disseminate eject intersperse partition propagate radiate rout scramble shed sow strew

WEAK

cast forth divvy dole out measure out send off split up take off in all directions

Antonyms

STRONGEST

accumulate appear arrive collect gather marry unite

STRONG

hide hold keep welcome

WEAK

arrange assemble garner

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

AFP journalists saw several people arrested by police, who also fired tear gas to disperse the growing crowds.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The decision to let passengers disperse around the globe has stirred anxiety beyond the Canary Islands, but infectious-disease doctors told The Wall Street Journal that any fears of a Covid-like situation were misplaced.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

This material consists of a single atomic layer of carbon with oxygen groups attached, giving it the ability to disperse well in water and perform a range of functions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 2026

In a statement on Thursday, a gardaí spokesperson said the force was "moving to an enforcement phase" unless those blocking access to critical infrastructure "desist and disperse".

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

Already, the other members of the congregation were beginning to disperse.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros

Vocabulary lists containing disperse

Fahrenheit 451

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All American Boys

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