demilitarize

[ dee-mil-i-tuh-rahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, de·mil·i·ta·rized, de·mil·i·ta·riz·ing.

1. to deprive of military character; free from militarism.
2. to place under civil instead of military control.
3. to forbid military use of (a border zone).

demilitarize

/ diːˈmɪlɪtəˌraɪz /

verb

1. to remove any military presence or function in (an area)

   demilitarized zone

2. to free of military character, purpose, etc

   11 regiments were demilitarized

Derived Forms

• deˌmilitariˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• de·mili·ta·ri·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of demilitarize¹

First recorded in 1880–85; de- + militarize

Example Sentences

Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine's president's office, said this week that Ukrainian troops were working to "demilitarize" Crimea and had covered 70% of the distance.

From Reuters

And in an interview with CNN’s “State of the Union,” Netanyahu appeared to rule out returning Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, saying whatever group takes over must “demilitarize” and “de-radicalize Gaza.”

From Seattle Times

It urged Serbia to immediately pull back its troops and demilitarize the border area.

From Washington Times

It urged Serbia to immediately pull back its troops and demilitarize the border area.

From Seattle Times

Russia launched a full-scale invasion on Ukraine in February 2022, saying the goal of the "special military operation" was to de-nazify and demilitarize its neighbour.

From Reuters

Related Words

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