separation

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌse-pə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce separation (audio)
Synonyms of separationnext
1
: the act or process of separating : the state of being separated
2
a
: a point, line, or means of division
b
: an intervening space : gap
the separation between wheel spokes
3
a
: cessation of cohabitation between a married couple by mutual agreement or judicial decree
b
: termination of a contractual relationship (such as employment or military service)

Synonyms of separation

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Examples of separation in a Sentence

After a separation of 30 years, she visited her family in Cuba. Moving away meant separation from his family.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But others criticized the tactics used and family separations. — Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 19 Oct. 2026 The telling sequence There’s not a sequence more indicative of the aforementioned separation than the end of the first half. — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026 Carney’s closing appeal came after two days of campaigning against separation in the province. — Rob Gillies, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026 Albertans will decide whether to remain a province or begin the legal process toward a future referendum on separation. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for separation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of separation was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing separation

Rhymes for separation

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Browse Nearby Words

separatio bonorum
separation
separation anxiety
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Separation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/separation. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

separation

noun
sep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌsep-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce separation (audio)
1
: the act or process of separating : the state of being separated
2
a
: a point or line of division
b
: a space that comes between things : gap
the separation between wheel spokes
3
a
: a formal separating of spouses by agreement but without divorce
b
: the ending of a relationship that is bound by a contract (as employment or military service)

Medical Definition

separation

noun
sep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌsep-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce separation (audio)
1
: the process of isolating or extracting from or of becoming isolated from a mixture
also : the resulting state
2
: dislocation see shoulder separation

Legal Definition

separation

noun
sep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌse-pə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce separation (audio)
1
: cessation of cohabitation between a married couple by mutual agreement with intent that it be permanent
also : legal separation compare divorce

Note: In some cases in which the estrangement is extreme, a separation is considered to have occurred even when the couple retain the same residence if they have stopped communicating and engaging in sexual relations and intend to be separated.

2
: termination of a contractual relationship (as employment or military service)

More from Merriam-Webster on separation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about separation

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