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Definition of decriminalize

decriminalize

/diːˈkrɪmɪnəlaɪz/
(UK: decriminalise)
de · crim · i · nal · ize
Adjective:decriminalized
•
Past Simple:decriminalized
•
Past Participle:decriminalized
•
Present Participle:decriminalizing
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decriminalize Lexical Profile

decriminalize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cease to treat an action or activity as illegal or as a criminal offense through legislative reform.

Example

"Several jurisdictions have voted to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of certain substances, replacing jail time with civil fines."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for decriminalize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for decriminalize

Word Nuance & Usage

'Decriminalize' is often confused with 'legalize'; while legalizing an act removes all legal prohibitions, decriminalizing it removes criminal prosecution and imprisonment while potentially retaining civil fines or regulatory penalties.

• Rhymes for decriminalize

• Nearby Words

decrepitly
decrescendo
decriminalization
decriminalize
decry
decrypt
decryption

Cite this Entry

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