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Definition of desex
desex
/diːˈsɛks/
de · sex
Past Simple:desexed
•Past Participle:desexed
•Present Participle:desexing
desex Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
8
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
desex Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• verb
1
To surgically remove the reproductive organs of an animal to prevent breeding.
Example
"The local animal shelter requires all adopted dogs and cats to be desexed before going to their new homes."
2
To deprive of sexual characteristics, qualities, or appeal.
Example
"The censorship board attempted to desex the film by removing all romantic and intimate scenes."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for desexWord Nuance & Usage
While universally understood, 'desex' is the standard veterinary term in Australian and New Zealand English, whereas North American and British English generally prefer 'neuter', 'spay', or 'castrate'.
• Rhymes for desex
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 20th century, combining the privative prefix 'de-' with 'sex', originally used in social and literary contexts before becoming a standard veterinary term in certain regions.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Desex. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/desex