decouple

[dee-kuhp-uhl]

verb (used with object)

decoupled, decoupling 

1. to cause to become separated, disconnected, or divergent; uncouple.

2. to absorb the shock of (a nuclear explosion).

   a surrounding mass of earth and rock can decouple a nuclear blast.

3. Electronics.,  to loosen or eliminate the coupling of (a signal between two circuits).

verb (used without object)

decoupled, decoupling 

1. to separate or diverge from an existing connection; uncouple.

decouple

/ ˌdiːˈkʌpəl /

verb

1. (tr) to separate (joined or coupled subsystems) thereby enabling them to exist and operate separately

Other Word Forms

• decoupler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of decouple¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; de- + couple

Example Sentences

The decoupling from Starz was seen as a way for Lionsgate to separate itself from the declining fortunes of the TV business and potentially be more attractive to buyers as a standalone studio, analysts said.

From Los Angeles Times

Mai says that banning Russian LNG exports to Europe and closing the refining loophole in Western jurisdictions would be "important steps in finishing the decoupling of the West from Russian hydrocarbons".

From BBC

Some analysts do believe that despite the so-called trade "reset" between Beijing and Washington, a larger strategic decoupling between China and the US will continue to benefit India in the long run.

From BBC

"The consensus from both delegations this weekend is neither side wants a decoupling," said US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a press conference in Geneva.

From BBC

In California, under a policy known as decoupling, utilities don’t make more money as customers use more energy.

From Los Angeles Times