disarm

[dis-ahrm]

verb (used with object)

1. to deprive of a weapon or weapons.

2. to remove the fuze or other actuating device from.

   to disarm a bomb.

3. to deprive of the means of attack or defense.

   The lack of logic disarmed his argument.

4. to divest or relieve of hostility, suspicion, etc.; win the affection or approval of; charm.

   His smile disarmed us.

verb (used without object)

1. to lay down one's weapons.

2. (of a country) to reduce or limit the size, equipment, armament, etc., of the army, navy, or air force.

disarm

/ dɪsˈɑːm /

verb

1. (tr) to remove defensive or offensive capability from (a country, army, etc)

2. (tr) to deprive of weapons

3. (tr) to remove the triggering device of (a bomb, shell, etc)

4. (tr) to win the confidence or affection of

5. (intr) (of a nation, etc) to decrease the size and capability of one's armed forces

6. (intr) to lay down weapons

Other Word Forms

• disarmer noun
• undisarmed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disarm¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English word from Old French word desarmer. See dis- ¹, arm ²

Example Sentences

“They are attempting to violate landmark Supreme Court decisions and disarm law-abiding citizens by banning some of the most commonly owned handguns in America.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Hamas has previously said it will not disarm unless a Palestinian state was established - and has rejected the idea of foreign governance in Gaza.

Read more on BBC

Potential contributors will not send in their troops to use force to disarm Hamas.

Read more on BBC

Hamas security forces were tightening their grip on Gaza's ruined cities Tuesday even as global support mounted for a US-backed deal that would see them disarmed.

Read more on Barron's

If Hamas attempts to control Gaza or refuses to disarm, it could set the ground for a deterioration of the shaky peace.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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