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

A mum whose five-year-old deafblind son has made his acting debut in Eastenders has said she is "so proud" of him and she hopes it will "break down barriers" for disabled children.

From BBC

A prison doctor, she said, had pronounced her low blood pressure a serious condition, one that might leave her permanently disabled and her six children a burden to society.

From Literature

However two disabled toilets, including one with baby-changing facilities, are available and staff are on site to direct passengers.

From BBC

Independent MSP Jeremy Balfour - born with no left arm and a right arm that ends at the elbow - said disabled people were "terrified" of assisted dying legislation.

From BBC

“I have a disease that will inevitably make me completely disabled, and I can’t afford the treatment because I’m hemorrhaging money to a 20-year-old debt.”

From Salon

Related Words

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