disenfranchise

[dis-en-fran-chahyz]

verb (used with object)

disenfranchised, disenfranchising 

1. to deprive (a person) of a right or privilege of citizenship, especially the right to vote.

   This electoral law disenfranchises people in prison and on parole, but allows those on probation to vote.

2. to deprive of the rights or privileges of full participation in society or in any community or organization, especially of the opportunity to influence policy or make one’s voice heard.

   We are intentionally seeking to engage all employees in these discussions so as not to disenfranchise any social minority.

3. to deprive of a commercial or legal franchise.

   There’s been talk of disenfranchising the cricket team for violation of the league’s bylaws.

disenfranchise

/ ˌdɪsɪnˈfræntʃɪzmənt, ˌdɪsɪnˈfræntʃaɪz /

verb

1. to deprive (a person) of the right to vote or other rights of citizenship

2. to deprive (a place) of the right to send representatives to an elected body

3. to deprive (a business concern, etc) of some privilege or right

4. to deprive (a person, place, etc) of any franchise or right

Other Word Forms

• disenfranchisement noun
• disenfranchiser noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disenfranchise¹

First recorded in 1620–30; dis- ¹ + enfranchise

Example Sentences

There is, however, an added, if intangible, cost to Proposition 50: Effectively disenfranchising millions of conservative and Republican-leaning Californians, who already feel as though they’re ignored and politically impotent.

From Los Angeles Times

Some believe the territory's complex citizenship laws have inadvertently created a crucible of disenfranchised Haitian youngsters.

From BBC

This redistricting maneuver would effectively disenfranchise millions of California Republicans, potentially reducing GOP representation to just a handful of the state’s 52 House seats.

From Los Angeles Times

The districts that would be eliminated are predominantly Black and brown, and these millions of voters would be effectively disenfranchised.

From Salon

The ECI says the drive targets duplicate and deceased voters, but critics say its haste has disenfranchised many, especially migrants and minorities.

From BBC