Definition of disrupt

The word "disrupt" has its roots in the Latin phrase "dis-rumpere," which means "to break or shatter." In English, the word "disrupt" has been used since the 15th century to mean "to break or interrupt a smooth or continuous process." In the 19th century, the word took on a more technical connotation, referring to the way a sudden or unexpected event could break or disrupt the flow of a physical process, such as the flow of water or the movement of a gear. In the 21st century, the term "disrupt" has taken on a new meaning, particularly in the context of business and technology. It refers to the way new technologies or innovative ideas can break or shatter the existing order, creating new opportunities and challenges. This usage is thought to have originated in the startup culture of Silicon Valley, where entrepreneurs and investors sought to identify new industries or markets that could be "disrupted" by innovative products or services.