Dissimilation (Noun)
Meaning 1
A linguistic process by which one of two similar sounds in a word becomes less like the other; "the Old French MARBRE became the English MARBLE by dissimilation".
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The change from "plenitude" to "plenty" is an example of dissimilation, where the double "n" is reduced to a single "n" to make the word easier to pronounce.
- Dissimilation occurred in the development of the word "pillar" from the Latin "pilarius", where the double "l" became a single "l" and then an "r" to create a distinct sound.
- The process of dissimilation is also seen in the transformation of the Latin "vitulus" to the English "vittle", where the double "t" becomes a single "t" and then a "d" to create a different sound.
- The Old English word "mete" underwent dissimilation to become the Modern English "meat", where the double "t" becomes a single "t" to simplify the pronunciation.
- The dissimilation of the Latin "camera" resulted in the English "chamber", where the double "r" becomes a single "r" and the sound of the word changes significantly.
Related Words
Meaning 2
Breakdown in living organisms of more complex substances into simpler ones together with release of energy.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Dissimilation is a key process in cellular respiration where complex organic molecules are broken down to produce energy for the cell.
- In dissimilation, energy is released from complex substances and converted into simpler compounds that can be utilized by the cell.
- Microorganisms such as bacteria play a significant role in the process of dissimilation in ecosystems by decomposing dead organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the environment.
- During the dissimilation of glucose in glycolysis, a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions occur, converting glucose into pyruvate with the net gain of two ATP molecules.
- Dissimilation reactions, including fermentation and anaerobic respiration, allow organisms to survive in environments where oxygen is scarce by breaking down organic matter without requiring oxygen.