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

Typically, winds in the upper atmosphere can weaken or disperse gravity waves before they reach such heights.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

Both substances can disperse widely in the air.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

Werner can see the vapor of his breath rise and disperse.

From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr

Vocabulary lists containing disperse

Fahrenheit 451

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Watsons Go to Birmingham

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

All American Boys

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!