kɑɹv kɑːv kɒmpɑː(ɹ)tˈmɛnt(ə)laɪz kəmˌpɑɹtˈmɛntəlˌaɪz significantly cut up a manuscript damage or injure severely The madman mutilates art work separate into isolated compartments or categories You cannot compartmentalize your life like this! cut into pieces cut to pieces Father carved the ham