Cosmic ray spallation is the process in which high-energy cosmic rays collide with atomic nuclei, breaking them apart into smaller particles. Synonyms for this term include cosmic ray fragmentation, cosmic ray disintegration, and cosmic ray breakup. Additionally, the process can also be referred to as cosmic ray nucleosynthesis, as it can lead to the formation of new nuclei through reactions between the fragmented particles. These synonyms all describe the same phenomenon, but may be used in different contexts depending on the specific focus of the discussion. Regardless of the term used, cosmic ray spallation plays an important role in shaping the composition of cosmic rays and the elements present in the universe.