disarm

[ dis-ahrm ]

verb (used with object)

1. to deprive of a weapon or weapons.
2. to remove the fuze or other actuating device from:

   to disarm a bomb.

3. to deprive of the means of attack or defense:

   The lack of logic disarmed his argument.

4. to divest or relieve of hostility, suspicion, etc.; win the affection or approval of; charm:

   His smile disarmed us.

verb (used without object)

1. to lay down one's weapons.
2. (of a country) to reduce or limit the size, equipment, armament, etc., of the army, navy, or air force.

disarm

/ dɪsˈɑːm /

verb

1. tr to remove defensive or offensive capability from (a country, army, etc)
2. tr to deprive of weapons
3. tr to remove the triggering device of (a bomb, shell, etc)
4. tr to win the confidence or affection of
5. intr (of a nation, etc) to decrease the size and capability of one's armed forces
6. intr to lay down weapons

Derived Forms

• disˈarmer, noun

Other Words From

• dis·armer noun
• undis·armed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disarm¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English word from Old French word desarmer. See dis- ¹, arm ²

Example Sentences

“Even as an executive, I’ve always used humor as a way to disarm people in the best possible way. I know how to connect people.”

From Los Angeles Times

In a survey by the Korea Institute for National Unification, a government-funded think tank, 66% of South Koreans said their country should get nuclear weapons if North Korea does not disarm.

From Los Angeles Times

Ten years later, it forced Israel to withdraw from the country — though Israel continues to control some disputed territory — but did not disarm.

From Los Angeles Times

"Humour has this unique ability to disarm people - it lowers their defences and allows them to consider issues from a fresh perspective," he said.

From BBC

Security Council passed a resolution requiring Hezbollah to disarm in the area south of the Litani River, 10 kilometers north of the Israel–Lebanon border.

From Slate

Related Words

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