As a Noun: 1. The separating of something into the different parts that it is made of. 2. The pulling off or the cutting off of the arms or legs of a person or animal. English = dismemberment. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To separate something in to the different parts that it is made of. English = take apart. 2. To tear the body of a person or animal to pieces, or to pull or cut off the arms or legs of a person or animal. Formal English = dismember.