decarcerate

[ dee-kahr-suh-reyt ]

verb (used without object)

1. to pursue policy or actions aimed at reducing the number of people in prison:

   Local judges are making efforts to decarcerate by replacing prison sentences with time in rehabilitation programs.

verb (used with object)

1. to pursue policy aimed at reducing the number of people in prison in (a country or region):

   We aim to decarcerate our state by repealing mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

2. to free from prison:

   The county has moved to decarcerate prisoners being held for possession of marijuana.

Word History and Origins

Origin of decarcerate¹

First recorded in 1900–05; de- ( def ) + (in)carcerate ( def )