The word "dematerialized" is spelled as /diː.məˈtɪə.ri.əlaɪzd/. It is derived from the verb "materialize", meaning to become physical or tangible. The prefix "de-" means removal or reversal, therefore dematerialize means to make something intangible or nonexistent. The word is commonly used in science fiction movies or books, where objects or people are dematerialized, usually for transportation. The unique spelling of this word can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of English spelling, as it contains multiple vowels and consonant combinations.
Dematerialized refers to the act or process of transforming a physical object, concept, or asset into a non-physical or digital form. It essentially involves removing or reducing the material or tangible aspects of something and converting it into a virtual or intangible representation.
In the context of finance and investments, dematerialization typically refers to the conversion of physical securities, such as stock certificates or bonds, into digital or electronic format. This transition allows for easier and more convenient trading, settlement, and management of these assets since they are now stored and represented electronically in a central depository or registry.
In another sense, dematerialization can refer to the reduction or elimination of the physical components or resources required for a particular function or process. This can be seen, for instance, in the shift towards digital books and publications, where printed materials are replaced by electronic copies that can be accessed on various devices. Additionally, dematerialization can occur in manufacturing through processes like 3D printing, which create objects by adding layers of material rather than cutting and shaping physical pieces.
The concept of dematerialization encompasses the idea of reducing the reliance on physical objects, often driven by technological advancements and the desire for increased efficiency, convenience, and sustainability.
The word "dematerialized" is derived from the prefix "de-", meaning "opposite" or "undoing", and the word "materialized".
The term "materialize" has a Latin origin, coming from the word "materia", which means "matter" or "substance". In English, "materialize" means the act of becoming physical or tangible, or the manifestation of something that was previously nonexistent or invisible.
By adding the prefix "de-", the word "dematerialize" expresses the opposite meaning. Therefore, "dematerialized" refers to the state of becoming immaterial or intangible, or the process of disappearing or ceasing to exist as a physical form.