Disenfranchise

/dɪs.ɪnˈfræn.ˌʧaɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To deprive someone of the right to vote or other rights.

The new voting laws may disenfranchise many low-income citizens.

To take away power or influence from a group or individual.

The changes in policy could disenfranchise younger voters who are less likely to meet the new requirements.

To render a group or individual powerless or ineffective.

Historically, certain laws were enacted to disenfranchise minority communities.

Early 19th century: from dis- ‘reverse’ + enfranchise.

voter disenfranchisement

The systemic exclusion of certain groups from voting.

disenfranchised communities

Groups of people who have been deprived of their voting rights.

enfranchise

To grant a right or privilege, especially the right to vote.

suffrage

The right to vote in political elections.

to get cut off from voting

If they pass that law, we’ll all get disenfranchised.

to be left out of decisions

Too often, young people feel disenfranchised by the political system.