desegregate

[ dee-seg-ri-geyt ]

verb (used with object)

, de·seg·re·gat·ed, de·seg·re·gat·ing.

1. to eliminate racial segregation in:

   to desegregate all schools.

verb (used without object)

, de·seg·re·gat·ed, de·seg·re·gat·ing.

1. to eliminate racial segregation; to integrate at an institutional level members of different communities without regard to skin color.

desegregate

/ diːˈsɛɡrɪˌɡeɪt /

verb

1. to end racial segregation in (a school or other public institution)

Derived Forms

• ˌdesegreˈgationist, nounadjective
• ˌdesegreˈgation, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of desegregate¹

First recorded in 1950–55; de- + segregate

Example Sentences

By then, he’d had a long career as a prominent civil liberties lawyer working to desegregate public schools throughout the country.

From Washington Post

Elder’s story is hailed as one that helped desegregate the game.

From Washington Post

I would say I want a completely desegregated New York City public school system.

From Ozy

It was one of many tactics the union used to desegregate the city.

From ProPublica

There’s going to be no Medicare money if the hospital doesn’t desegregate.

From Washington Post

In 1962, the Kennedy administration was looking for a way to desegregate the Washington Redskins.

From The Daily Beast

Attempting to desegregate Dar Ul Hijra, known in law enforcement circles as “the 9/11 mosque,” is significant.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• integrate