Meaning & Definition of word "Deactivate"

to

arrow

    Deactivate

    /diːˈaktɪveɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. To make (something) inactive or ineffective.
      • Example: The technician had to deactivate the alarm system before starting the repairs.
    • 2. To remove or disable a function or a feature.
      • Example: Please deactivate your account if you no longer wish to use the service.
    • 3. To stop a mechanism or system from operating.
      • Example: She learned how to deactivate the electric fence for maintenance.
    • 4. To neutralize or make harmless.
      • Example: The team worked quickly to deactivate the bomb before it could detonate.
    • 5. To turn off a device or application.
      • Example: You can deactivate notifications in the app settings to reduce distractions.

    Etymology

    From the prefix 'de-' meaning remove or reverse, and 'activate' from Latin 'activare', meaning to make active.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    deactivate an account:

    To make an online account inactive.

    deactivate a device:

    To turn off or disable a device.

    deactivate a feature:

    To disable a specific function in software.

    Related Words

    activate:

    To make something active or operational.

    reactivate:

    To make something active again.

    Slang Meanings of deactivate

    Meaning: To quit or log off

    Example Sentence: I'm going to deactivate from all social media for a while.

    Meaning: To chill or relax

    Example Sentence: After all that work, I just need to deactivate for the evening.