disruptive

[ dis-ruhp-tiv ]

adjective

1. causing, tending to cause, or caused by disruption; disrupting:

   the disruptive effect of their rioting.

2. Business.
   1. relating to or noting a new product, service, or idea that radically changes an industry or business strategy, especially by creating a new market and disrupting an existing one:

      disruptive innovations such as the cell phone and the two-year community college.

   2. relating to or noting a business executive or company that introduces or is receptive to such innovation:

      disruptive CEOs with imagination and vision.

disruptive

/ dɪsˈrʌptɪv /

adjective

1. involving, causing, or tending to cause disruption

Derived Forms

• disˈruptively, adverb

Other Words From

• dis·ruptive·ly adverb
• dis·ruptive·ness noun
• nondis·ruptive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disruptive¹

First recorded in 1835–45; disrupt + -ive

Example Sentences

While these symptoms do not constitute a disorder diagnosed as psychosis, they can still be disruptive, distressing or detrimental to functional capacity.

From Science Daily

"In some areas, the damage may be minimal, but in others, it could be disruptive. We're working to fill those gaps."

From Science Daily

“Chinese leaders will reinforce the narrative that the US is the single and most disruptive source of global instability, while portraying China as a responsible and confident world power,” says Yu Jie.

From BBC

The Senate's censure, which passed 46-12, described Thorpe's actions as "disrespectful and disruptive" and said they should disqualify her from representing the chamber as a member of any delegation.

From BBC

Northern areas and higher ground will be most at risk for potentially disruptive snow.

From BBC

Related Words

• disturbing
• rowdy
• troublesome
• unruly
• upsetting