dispersal

[dih-spur-suh l] /dɪˈspɜr səl/
noun
1.
dispersion (def 1).
Origin
1815-25; disperse + -al2
Related forms
nondispersal, noun
redispersal, noun
Examples from the web for dispersal
  • dispersal: some movement to lower elevation in northern part of range.
  • Researchers had thought this species might be a fluke-a single, short-lived dispersal of one type of tetrapod.
  • dispersal: this species is not migratory, but some individuals can disperse long distances.
  • dispersal: generally resident, but large irruptions casually occur in fall and winter.
  • Whether this relates to the ambience of the light or to the dispersal of predators, however, remains to be seen.
  • Whenever a barrier can be overcome by a breeding pair or more, successful dispersal has happened.
  • The researchers also tested the effect corridors had on seed dispersal by birds.
  • So, dispersal theory predicts that transoceanic dispersal should be a common event.
  • Perhaps the dispersal of the males is a multi-faceted defense mechanism.
  • Frequency of social play does not affect dispersal partnerships in wild meerkats.
British Dictionary definitions for dispersal

dispersal

/dɪˈspɜːsəl/
noun
1.
the act of dispersing or the condition of being dispersed
2.
the spread of animals, plants, or seeds to new areas
Word Origin and History for dispersal
n.

1821; see disperse + -al (2).