The word "disappear" is spelled with a prefix "dis-" and a base word "appear". The prefix "dis-" means to not or the opposite of something. The base word "appear" is spelled with two vowels "a" and "e" next to each other which can create confusion for some spellers. The correct pronunciation of "appear" uses the long "a" sound /əˈpɪər/. So, "disappear" is pronounced as /dɪs.əˈpɪər/ and meaning to vanish or to become unseen.
The verb "disappear" refers to the act of vanishing from sight or existence. It describes the action of becoming completely absent, often without leaving any trace or indication of one's whereabouts. When something or someone disappears, it indicates a sudden and unexplained absence, as if they were there one moment and gone the next.
The term "disappear" can be used in a literal or metaphorical sense. In its literal sense, it pertains to physical objects or people ceasing to be visible, as if they have vanished into thin air. This can occur through various means, such as hiding, fading away, or being obscured from view. In its metaphorical sense, "disappear" signifies the act of becoming unnoticed, inconspicuous, or forgotten. It implies a fading presence or significance, where someone or something gradually loses prominence or recognition in a particular context or society.
Furthermore, "disappear" can also encompass the act of ceasing to exist altogether. This denotes a total absence or annihilation, where something ceases to have any form or existence whatsoever. Disappearance can occur due to a variety of reasons, including natural processes, deliberate actions, or unforeseen circumstances. It can refer to individuals, objects, ideas, or even abstract concepts.
Overall, "disappear" encapsulates the act of vanishing, whether it be through physical absence, fading recognition, or complete annihilation, thereby leaving behind no trace or evidence of its previous existence.
To vanish from view; to hide; to abscond; to cease; to withdraw from sight.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "disappear" originated from the combination of two Latin words: "dis" meaning "away" or "apart" and "apparere" meaning "to appear". The prefix "dis" indicates a negation or reversal of the action, while "apparere" means the act of becoming visible or coming into sight. Hence, "disappear" carries the meaning of ceasing to appear, becoming unseen, or vanishing.