dissipation
NounUS[dis-ih-pey-shuhn]/ˌdɪsɪˈpeɪʃən/4 syllables
Open English WordNet
Noun (3)
- breaking up and scattering by dispersion“the dissipation of the mist”Type of dispersion, scattering
- dissolute indulgence in sensual pleasureSynonyms: profligacydissolutionlicentiousnessloosenessType of intemperance, intemperateness
- useless or profitless activity; using or expending or consuming thoughtlessly or carelessly“if the effort brings no compensating gain, it is a waste”“mindless dissipation of natural resources”Synonyms: wastewastefulnessType of activityKinds waste of time, waste of material, boondoggle, extravagance, waste of effort, waste of money, squandering
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Webster's Dictionary (1913)
Dis′si·pa′tion (dĭs′sĭ-pā′shŭn), noun
Origin: L. dissipatio: cf. F. dissipation.
1. The act of dissipating or dispersing; a state of dispersion or separation; dispersion; waste.
Without loss or dissipation of the matter.— Francis, Baron Verulam Bacon
The famous dissipation of mankind.— Sir Matt. Hale
2. A dissolute course of life, in which health, money, etc., are squandered in pursuit of pleasure; profuseness in vicious indulgence, as late hours, riotous living, etc.; dissoluteness.
To reclaim the spendthrift from his dissipation and extravagance.— Patrick Henry
3. A trifle which wastes time or distracts attention.
Prevented from finishing them [the letters] a thousand avocations and dissipations.— Jonathan Swift
Dissipation of energy. Same as Degradation of energy, under Degradation.
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54