Dissipation \Dis`si*pa"tion\, n. [L. dissipatio: cf. F. dissipation.]

1. The act of dissipating or dispersing; a state of dispersion or separation; dispersion; waste.

Without loss or dissipation of the matter. --Bacon.

The famous dissipation of mankind. --Sir M. Hale.

2. A dissolute course of life, in which health, money, etc., are squandered in pursuit of pleasure; profuseness in vicious indulgence, as late hours, riotous living, etc.; dissoluteness.

To reclaim the spendthrift from his dissipation and extravagance. --P. Henry.

3. A trifle which wastes time or distracts attention.

Prevented from finishing them [the letters] a thousand avocations and dissipations. --Swift.

Dissipation of energy. Same as Degradation of energy, under Degradation.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)