demilitarize

American  

[dee-mil-i-tuh-rahyz] / diˈmɪl ɪ təˌraɪz /

especially British, demilitarise

verb (used with object)

demilitarized, demilitarizing

1. to deprive of military character; free from militarism.

2. to place under civil instead of military control.

3. to forbid military use of (a border zone).

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demilitarize British  

/ diːˈmɪlɪtəˌraɪz /

verb

1. to remove any military presence or function in (an area)

   demilitarized zone

2. to free of military character, purpose, etc

   11 regiments were demilitarized

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Other Word Forms

• demilitarization noun

Etymology

Origin of demilitarize

First recorded in 1880–85; de- + militarize

Example Sentences

Lebanese officials say they are on pace to demilitarize southern Lebanon as part of the agreement that halted hostility between Israel and Hezbollah in late 2024.

From The Wall Street Journal

The U.S. is proposing a demilitarized “free economic zone” in the area.

From The Wall Street Journal

Russia was likely to object to provisions including a demilitarized zone in the Donetsk area, he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

That would likely resemble a previous 1974 nonaggression pact that established a demilitarized buffer zone between the two countries.

From The Wall Street Journal

Other promises include recognizing the sovereignty of Ukraine and keeping troops out of a demilitarized part of the Donbas.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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