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fragment
/ˈfræɡmənt/
broken piece
She found a small fragment of the ancient vase in the excavation site.
She discovered a tiny broken piece of the old vase during the archaeological dig.
general
A small part broken off or separated from something larger.
The vase shattered, leaving only fragments of glass on the floor.
The vase broke into many small pieces of glass scattered on the floor.
Often used to describe physical objects, but can also refer to abstract concepts (e.g., 'fragments of a memory').
general
(verb) To break or separate into fragments.
The old document fragmented over time due to poor storage.
The ancient paper broke into smaller pieces because it was stored improperly.
Less common than the noun form; often used in technical or literary contexts.
Collocations
glass fragmentsbroken pieces of glassfragments of memoryincomplete recollectionsshattered into fragmentsbroken into many small pieces
Pro Tip
Distinguish 'fragment' from 'piece'
A 'fragment' implies something broken off from a whole, often irregularly, while a 'piece' can be any part, even if neatly cut. Example: 'a fragment of glass' (irregular break) vs. 'a piece of cake' (neatly sliced).
Gold Rule
Use 'fragment' for irregular breaks
If the separation is clean or intentional (e.g., cutting a cake), use 'piece' or 'section'. Reserve 'fragment' for accidental or uneven breaks.
Word Origin
From Latin *fragmentum* (a broken piece), derived from *frangere* (to break). Entered English in the 15th century via Old French *fragment*.
Usage Notes
Used for both physical and abstract separations. In computing, 'fragment' refers to a segment of data (e.g., 'network packet fragments'). In literature, it can describe incomplete narratives or ideas.
Word Breakdown
frag-
from Latin *frangere*, meaning 'to break'
root-ment
suffix indicating the result of an action
suffixEnglish Dictionary