Definition of: dissolve

(di·zolv′) v. ·solved, ·solv·ing v.t.
1. To change (a substance) from a solid to a fluid condition.
2. To cause to pass into or combine with a solution; melt; liquefy.
3. To end the existence, functions, or meetings of: to dissolve Parliament.
4. To end or conclude (a relationship or association): to dissolve a partnership or a marriage.
5. Law To set aside; annul, as an injunction.
6. To disunite.
—v.i.
7. To pass into or as into a liquid state; melt; become fluid.
8. To come to an end; disperse, as a meeting.
9. To fade away; vanish, as an image.
10. In motion pictures, to change gradually from one picture or scene to another, the two overlapping in the process. See synonyms under MELT.
—noun In motion pictures and television, the slow emergence of one scene out of another, caused by the lapping of a fade–in over a fade–out; a lap–dissolve. [<L dissolvere <dis- apart + solvere loosen]
—dis·solv′a·ble adjective
—dis·sol′vent adjective & noun