decriminalize
Americanverb (used with object)
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of decriminalize
An Americanism dating back to 1965–70; de- + criminal + -ize
Explanation
When you take something that's against the law and make it legal, you decriminalize it. If your state rescinds a law requiring motorcycle helmets, they decriminalize riding without a helmet (which still doesn't mean it's a good idea). As social norms change, lawmakers and voters may choose to decriminalize activities or behaviors that were once illegal. If the legislature of your states decides that a casino will bring in needed revenue, they might decriminalize gambling. The word decriminalize can also be used when things are still technically against the law, but those laws are no longer enforced: "There's still a leash law, but the city decided to decriminalize off-leash dogs on the beach."
Vocabulary lists containing decriminalize
crim, crimin (judgement; accusation)
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
crim, crimin
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In November, Paxton also sued Dallas after its residents overwhelmingly voted to decriminalize possession.
From Slate • May 28, 2025
However, early data from Virginia, one of the first places to decriminalize jaywalking, shows no increase in pedestrian deaths and injuries, according to a report by America Walks, a national pedestrian rights advocacy group.
From Seattle Times • Mar. 4, 2024
Then in 2021, a movement to decriminalize cruising began to take root in National City.
From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2023
“Did you lead the charge to decriminalize public urination in Washington, D.C.?”
From Washington Post • Mar. 31, 2023
In the memo, Mr. Bragg said the policies aimed to decriminalize poverty and mental illness, as well as balance fairness and public safety.
From Washington Times • Mar. 20, 2023
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
