The word Dispel (Verb) refers to driving away or eliminating doubts, fears, or negative thoughts often to bring clarity, peace, or confidence. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use Dispel correctly in sentences.
Dispel Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Dispel including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Dispel
Dispel means to cause something—especially fears, doubts, or misconceptions—to vanish or go away. It implies a purposeful action to clear the mind or atmosphere of negative or false ideas. It’s most often used in emotional, psychological, or social contexts.
Definition
Dispel is a verb meaning to eliminate, scatter, or drive away something intangible like fear, darkness, rumors, or misunderstandings. It conveys an active effort to clear up confusion, correct misinformation, or reduce emotional burdens.
Dispel is often used in sentences where clarity, calmness, or reassurance is being restored. For instance, a comforting voice might dispel a child’s fear, or facts might dispel harmful myths.
Etymology
The word dispel comes from the Latin word dispellere, which is formed from dis- meaning “apart” and pellere meaning “to drive.” This root combination originally meant “to scatter” or “to drive away forcefully.” The word entered Middle English in the 14th century from Old French dispeller, keeping its meaning of causing something to disappear.
Over time, its use evolved from physical dispersal (like dispelling smoke) to abstract concepts like dispelling doubts or illusions. Its consistent connotation across history has been the intentional removal of something that clouds, misleads, or burdens making it a powerful word in both emotional and logical contexts.
Example Sentences
- The teacher’s clear explanation helped dispel the confusion in class.
- Her smile was enough to dispel his anxiety about the meeting.
- The new evidence dispelled any remaining doubt about his innocence.
Dispel Synonyms
- Dissolve
- Eliminate
- Dismiss
- Banish
- Scatter
- Drive away
- Allay
- Erase
- Expel
- Quell
Dispel Antonyms
- Invite
- Encourage
- Conjure
- Retain
- Foster
- Maintain
- Preserve
- Harbor
- Accept
- Welcome
FAQs about Dispel
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Dispel”
1. What does “dispel” mean?
It means to drive away or eliminate something intangible like fear, doubt, or a misconception.
2. Is “dispel” used for physical things?
Rarely. It’s most often used for abstract or emotional things like anxiety, rumors, or tension.
4. What’s the difference between “dispel” and “dismiss”?
“Dispel” implies actively removing something, while “dismiss” suggests rejecting or ignoring it without necessarily resolving it.
5. Is “dispel” a positive word?
Yes, it usually carries a positive tone as it suggests relief, clarity, or freedom from negativity.