The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Comminution \Com`mi*nu"tion\, n.
   1. The act of reducing to a fine powder or to small
      particles; pulverization; the state of being comminuted.
      --Bentley.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. (Surg.) Fracture (of a bone) into a number of pieces.
      --Dunglison.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. Gradual diminution by the removal of small particles at a
      time; a lessening; a wearing away.
      [1913 Webster]

            Natural and necessary comminution of our lives.
                                                  --Johnson.
      [1913 Webster]