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Definition of deactivate

deactivate

/diːˈæk.tɪ.veɪt/
de · ac · ti · vate
Adjective:deactivated
•
Past Simple:deactivated
•
Past Participle:deactivated
•
Present Participle:deactivating
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deactivate Lexical Profile

deactivate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make a piece of equipment, a system, or a user account inactive or no longer operational by disconnecting or disabling it.

Example

"She decided to deactivate her social media accounts so she could focus on preparing for her final exams."

2

To remove or reduce the chemical reactivity, biological potency, or catalytic power of a substance, enzyme, or molecule.

Example

"High temperatures can rapidly deactivate the enzymes responsible for fermentation."

3

To release a military unit, ship, or facility from active duty or service.

Example

"The historic naval vessel was officially deactivated after forty years of continuous service."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for deactivate

• Rhymes for deactivate

• Nearby Words

de grey
de vis banded snake
deacon
deactivate
deactivation
deactivator
dead

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century by combining the privative prefix 'de-' with 'activate', which ultimately derives from the Latin verb 'agere' (to do, drive, or set in motion).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deactivate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deactivate
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