Definition of "dissociation" in English

noun

1. The act of dissociating or disuniting; a state of separation; disunion.

2. (chemistry) The process by which a compound body breaks up into simpler constituents; said particularly of the action of heat on gaseous or volatile substances.

   • the dissociation of the sulphur molecules
   • the dissociation of ammonium chloride into hydrochloric acid and ammonia

3. (psychology) A defence mechanism where certain thoughts or mental processes are compartmentalised in order to avoid emotional stress to the conscious mind.