disconnect

Everyday

1. To separate two things that were joined, especially to unplug or cut off power, water or a machine. tree →
2. To end a phone call or internet connection, or to be cut off. tree →
3. (informal, noun) A lack of connection or understanding between people or ideas: «a disconnect between what he says and what he does». tree →
4. To stop feeling close to others or to the world. tree →

In the lessons

In science and safety lessons: always disconnect a device from the power before cleaning it or fixing it. In everyday life, the internet or a phone call can disconnect; a bill unpaid may get the power disconnected. In talk about feelings, people «disconnect from screens» to rest. Phrases: «disconnect from», «get disconnected», «disconnect the power», «a disconnect between».

Examples

• Disconnect the toaster before you clean it. tree →
• Our call got disconnected in the tunnel. tree →
• Disconnect the battery to stop the circuit. tree →
• The power company disconnected the old house. tree →
• We disconnect from screens an hour before bed. tree →
• There is a disconnect between the rules and what really happens. tree →

Note

Opposite: «connect». The adjective «disconnected» also means not linked or feeling cut off. In circuits, disconnecting one wire in a simple series circuit stops the current everywhere.