disable

[dis-ey-buhl]

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.

disable

/ 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)

Other Word Forms

• disablement noun
• disabler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disable¹

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

Example Sentences

The only sign of remorse in our conversation was when he talked about a ransomware attack on a disabled children's charity.

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SNAP, a program formerly known as food stamps, helps millions of poor and disabled people buy food.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Already in the works: cash transfers to parents of young children and aid for families with disabled seniors.

Read more on Barron's

The program, formerly known as food stamps, helps millions of poor and disabled people buy food.

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The Democrats, meanwhile, are holding out for an extension on Affordable Care Act-related tax credits, and want Republicans to reverse cuts to Medicaid, the government program for low-income, disabled and/or elderly Americans.

Read more on MarketWatch

Related Words

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