dispel

[ dih-spel ]

verb (used with object)

, dis·pelled, dis·pel·ling.

1. to drive off in various directions; disperse; dissipate:

   to dispel the dense fog.

   Antonyms: gather

2. to cause to vanish; alleviate:

   to dispel her fears.

dispel

/ dɪˈspɛl /

verb

1. tr to disperse or drive away

Derived Forms

• disˈpeller, noun

Other Words From

• dis·pella·ble adjective
• dis·peller noun
• undis·pella·ble adjective
• undis·pelled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dispel¹

First recorded in 1625–35; from Latin dispellere “to drive asunder,” equivalent to dis- dis- ¹ + pellere “to drive”

Word History and Origins

Origin of dispel¹

C17: from Latin dispellere, from dis- ¹+ pellere to drive

Synonym Study

See scatter.

Example Sentences

“The No. 1 driver for us is dispelling the myth that reuse is just DIY or lower quality than ‘new’ fashion,” says Schlater from his studio.

From Los Angeles Times

This is contemporary sound to dispel clichéd fears of abrasive modernism while never cheaply pandering to mass appeal.

From New York Times

A newly published copy of his death certificate dispels much of the mystery: According to that document, Valenzuela’s underlying cause of death was possibly related to a liver disease and liver failure.

From Los Angeles Times

The government saying it isn’t looking to fill the vacancy will do little to dispel that instinct from those who thought it all along.

From BBC

But, until they grind through the pressure to victory, his team can't dispel the theory either.

From BBC

Related Words

• allay
• chase away
• dismiss
• disperse
• dissipate
• eliminate
• resolve