disarm

[dis-ahrm]

verb (used with object)

1. to deprive of a weapon or weapons.

2. to remove the fuze or other actuating device from.

   to disarm a bomb.

3. to deprive of the means of attack or defense.

   The lack of logic disarmed his argument.

4. to divest or relieve of hostility, suspicion, etc.; win the affection or approval of; charm.

   His smile disarmed us.

verb (used without object)

1. to lay down one's weapons.

2. (of a country) to reduce or limit the size, equipment, armament, etc., of the army, navy, or air force.

disarm

/ dɪsˈɑːm /

verb

1. (tr) to remove defensive or offensive capability from (a country, army, etc)

2. (tr) to deprive of weapons

3. (tr) to remove the triggering device of (a bomb, shell, etc)

4. (tr) to win the confidence or affection of

5. (intr) (of a nation, etc) to decrease the size and capability of one's armed forces

6. (intr) to lay down weapons

Other Word Forms

• disarmer noun
• undisarmed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disarm¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English word from Old French word desarmer. See dis- ¹, arm ²

Example Sentences

Over the weekend, Netanyahu vowed: "Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza will be demilitarised – either the easy way or the hard way".

From BBC

“Research very clearly shows that laws that are intended to disarm abusers work and they’re really, really critical to the safety of survivors,” Rajan said.

From Salon

Hamas has said it will only disarm in the context of handing over its weapons to a Palestinian state.

From Los Angeles Times

In a televised statement, he also said "Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza will be demilitarised – either the easy way or the hard way, but it will be achieved."

From BBC

It is also the fear of violent retribution, of being killed in the street, since the plan requires Hamas to completely disarm.

From BBC

Related Words

• deactivate 
• demilitarize 
• demobilize 
• disband 
• neutralize 
• occupy 
• subdue