Disable

/dɪsˈeɪbəl/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To make unable to act or operate.

The technical glitch will disable the machine until it is fixed.

To cause a person to be incapable of functioning normally.

The accident disabled him and he required extensive rehabilitation.

To render (something) ineffective or inoperative.

You can disable notifications in the app settings.

from Old French 'desabler', from un- 'not' + 'sable' 'able'.

disable a function

To turn off a specific feature in a system or device.

disable an account

To temporarily or permanently restrict access to an account.

disable the alarm

To turn off a security alarm system.

disability

A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.

able

Having the power, skill, means, or opportunity to do something.

To take out of action

That virus can really disable your computer.

To mess up

He totally disabled his chances of winning by not studying.