desegregate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
desegregate Word Meanings
- to end the separation of different racial or ethnic groups
- to bring together people who were previously segregated
- to eliminate separation in various contexts, such as schools
desegregate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
desegregate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/diːˈsɛɡrəɡeɪt/
US
/diˈsɛɡrəˌɡeɪt/
desegregate Word Etymology
The word 'desegregate' consists of the prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal' and the root 'segregate' derived from Latin 'segregratus', meaning 'to separate'. Its historical origin traces back from Latin to Old French before entering English. To remember, visualize a school where students from different backgrounds are finally sitting together, breaking down barriers and sharing stories.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Desegregate is a verb that means to end the separation of people by race or ethnicity in a place or system, and to bring together groups who were previously kept apart. It can refer to schools, public facilities, housing, and other institutions that once operated under formal or informal rules of separation. The term gained prominence during civil rights movements in the United States, where laws and policies were changed to eliminate segregation and to create equal access to services and opportunities. While desegregation aims to remove barriers, it does not automatically guarantee harmony, so contexts often discuss implementation, resistance, and ongoing efforts toward true inclusion.
Usage Reminders
- • Desegregate is a transitive verb used with places or systems (desegregate schools, desegregate public facilities).
- • It contrasts with integrate: desegregate ends separation, integrate brings people together.
- • Avoid using desegregate to describe individuals; you desegregate a policy or institution.
- • Watch for passive constructions: desegregation occurred, rather than the subject desegregated.
- • Pronounce /dɪˈsɛɡrəˌɡeɪt/ and listen for the stress on the second syllable.
Common Misconceptions
- Desegregate ends all forms of segregation instantly in all contexts.
- Desegregate and integrate are interchangeable in every sentence.
- Desegregate describes only racial policies, not other types of division.
- Desegregate is primarily a historical term and is rarely used today.
- Desegregate always results in immediate harmony and equal outcomes.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that desegregate emphasizes ending separation in institutions, which is often discussed in policy or history contexts; errors often involve confusing with 'integrate' or using it for individuals.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core meaning: end the separation in a place or system.
- Practice common collocations: desegregate schools, desegregate public facilities.
- Remember the noun form desegregation for discussions about policy.
- Differentiate from integration: desegregate ends separation; integrate brings people together.
- Look for historical contexts in news and history classes.
- Pronounce with emphasis on the second syllable: /dɪˈsɛɡrəˌɡeɪt/.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'desegregate' mean?
A.To separate groups based on color or ethnicity
B.To eliminate barriers between different social groups
C.To organize a community event
D.To create a uniform policy for all
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'desegregate' correctly.
A.Many schools worked to desegregate after the civil rights movement.
B.The team was excited to desegregate the new uniforms.
C.She decided to desegregate her garden by planting flowers.
D.They wanted to desegregate the schedule for better clarity.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'desegregate'?
A.Integrate
B.Separate
C.Exclude
D.Disband
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'desegregate'?
A.Unite
B.Reinforce segregation
C.Compromise
D.Collaborate
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where segregation was challenged?
A.The community welcomed new restaurants to desegregate the dining scene.
B.In 1960, a group of activists worked to ensure everyone could attend the same schools regardless of race.
C.A local club decided to desegregate its member fees.
D.They organized a festival to unite people from different backgrounds.
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