1. Separating something into fine particles
   "The fragmentation of the asteroid created a meteor shower";
   - atomization, atomisation [Brit]
    
2. The scattering of bomb fragments after the bomb explodes
   "The fragmentation from the grenade caused widespread damage"
    
3. (computing) the condition of a file that is broken up and stored in many different locations on a magnetic disk
   "fragmentation slows system performance because it takes extra time to locate and assemble the parts of the fragmented file"
    
4. The disintegration of social norms governing behaviour, thought, and social relationships
   "The fragmentation of society led to increased polarization and conflict"

Derived forms: fragmentations

Type of: blowup, blow-up, decomposition, detonation, disintegration, division, explosion, storage

Encyclopedia: Fragmentation