dissipate meaning and definition

DISSIPATE verb

Definition of dissipate (verb)

1. to cause to separate and go in different directions
   • "She waved her hand and scattered the crowds"
   • synonyms: break up, dispel, disperse, scatter
2. move away from each other
   • "The crowds dispersed"; "The children scattered in all directions when the teacher approached";
   • synonyms: disperse, scatter, spread out
3. spend frivolously and unwisely
   • "Fritter away one's inheritance"
   • synonyms: fool, fool away, fritter, fritter away, frivol away, shoot
4. live a life of pleasure, especially with respect to alcoholic consumption