Divestiture

Noun

Definition: The action of selling off or disposing of an asset, business, or investment.

Synonyms: Disposal, Sale, Liquidation

Antonyms: Acquisition, Investment, Purchase

Examples:

The company announced the divestiture of its non-core business units.

Mnemonics:

Think of "divest" as "divesting oneself of something", like taking off a piece of clothing.

Etymology:

Origin:

From the Latin word "divestire" meaning "to undress" or "deprive".

Historical Usage:

The term started being commonly used in finance and business contexts in the mid-20th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Divestiture of power"

Explanation:

Refers to the relinquishing or transfer of authority or control.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "divestiture" with "divorce".

Explanation:

Although both words involve the idea of separation or getting rid of something, "divestiture" specifically refers to selling off or disposing of assets or business units, while "divorce" refers to the legal dissolution of a marriage.