| dissolve into something dissolve into (something) 1. to end in an unpleasant or disorderly way. The discussion quickly dissolved into nasty accusations about her business dealings. Usage notes: often said about something that has begun pleasantly or without disagreement 2. to lose control and express strong emotions. She dissolved into tears when she saw the damage to her home. Everyone dissolved into gales of laughter at my sister's remark. Etymology: based on the literal meaning of dissolve (= to be absorbed by a liquid) |