disable

American  

[dis-ey-buhl] / dɪsˈeɪ bəl /

verb (used with object)

disabled, disabling

1. to make unable or unfit; weaken or destroy the capability of; incapacitate.

   The detective successfully disabled the bomb.

   Synonyms:

   paralyze, enfeeble

2. to impair or injure (a person or animal) physically or mentally.

   The accident disabled him for life.

3. to make legally incapable; disqualify.

   Minors are legally disabled from entering into a contract.

4. Digital Technology. to make (a device, system, or feature) unable to function; turn off.

   Some of the car’s advanced safety features can be disabled.

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disable British  

/ dɪsˈeɪbəl /

verb

1. to make ineffective, unfit, or incapable, as by crippling

2. to make or pronounce legally incapable

3. to switch off (an electronic device)

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Other Word Forms

• disablement noun
• disabler noun

Etymology

Origin of disable

First recorded in 1475–85; dis- ¹ + able

Example Sentences

On Samsung devices, you can tap to disable motion photos from the top of the camera app.

From The Wall Street Journal

The state law governing involuntary commitments and conservatorships for people with severe mental illness is known as the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act, and it includes the commonly used Section 5150 for those deemed “gravely disabled.”

From Los Angeles Times

It found no significant difference in the composite endpoint of disabling stroke or deaths from any cause.

From Barron's

According to prosecutors, on Saturday evening four soldiers housed at Percy Hospital had begun playing a game known within the military that involves attempting to disarm a colleague and disable their weapon.

From BBC

The organisation aims to raise awareness and "drive equality for a more inclusive matchday experience for disabled sports fans".

From BBC

Related Words

• exhaust
• immobilize
• knock out
• ruin
• shatter
• undermine
• wreck