dilution

noun

di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən How to pronounce dilution (audio)
də-
1
: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted
2
: something (such as a solution) that is diluted
3
: a lessening of real value (as of equity) by a decrease in relative worth
specifically : a decrease of per share value of common stock by an increase in the total number of shares

Examples of dilution in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Higher proof bourbons hold up well to dilution, while those with pronounced spice or sweetness enhance the classic cocktail’s complexity. — Emily Price, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 The value of the company's equity securities could be adversely affected by its level of cash distributions, and future offerings of debt or equity securities could result in dilution of existing shareholders' interests. — Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2025 Apply moisturizer after fully absorbing antifungal treatments to prevent dilution and ensure maximum effectiveness. — Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 6 Mar. 2025 These convenient products push the notion of what instant meals can be—with no dilution (no pun intended) in quality. — Hana Asbrink, Bon Appétit, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dilution

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Late Latin dīlūtiōn-, dīlūtiō, from Latin dīluere "to wash away, dissolve, make thinner by mixing with water" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at dilute entry 1

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dilution was in 1646

Rhymes for dilution

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Browse Nearby Words

dilution
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Cite this Entry

“Dilution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dilution. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

dilution

noun
di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən How to pronounce dilution (audio)
də-
1
: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted
2
: something (as a solution) that is diluted

Medical Definition

dilution

noun
di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən, də- How to pronounce dilution (audio)
1
: the action of diluting : the state of being diluted
2
: something (as a solution) that is diluted

Legal Definition

dilution

noun
di·​lu·​tion dī-ˈlü-shən, də- How to pronounce dilution (audio)
1
: a lessening of real value (as of equity) by a decrease in relative worth
specifically : a decrease of the value per share of common stock caused by an increase in the total number of shares
2
: a lessening of the value of a trademark that is caused by use of the mark by another and that creates potential confusion on the part of the consumer
3
: a weakening of the voting rights of a group of citizens (as a minority) because the representatives they elect have no greater legislative power than the representatives elected by smaller voting groups

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Nglish: Translation of dilution for Spanish Speakers

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