Defuse

/diːˈfjuːz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To remove the fuse from an explosive device to prevent it from exploding.

The bomb squad was called in to defuse the device found in the abandoned building.

To lessen the tension or hostility in a situation.

The mediator was able to defuse the argument between the two parties by encouraging them to listen to each other.

To make a dangerous or tense situation less severe.

She tried to defuse the situation by making a joke to lighten the mood.

The prefix 'de-' meaning removal and 'fuse' from Latin 'fusus', meaning to melt or pour.

defuse a situation

To reduce the intensity of a conflict or tense situation.

defuse tension

To alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety in a setting.

fuse

A safety device that burns away to prevent overload.

de-escalate

To reduce the intensity of a conflict or potentially explosive situation.

To chill out or relax in a tense situation.

We need to defuse this party before things get out of hand.

To calm down someone who is angry.

She managed to defuse his anger with a few well-chosen words.