decriminalize

[ dee-krim-uh-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, de·crim·i·nal·ized, de·crim·i·nal·iz·ing.

1. to eliminate criminal penalties for or remove legal restrictions against:

   to decriminalize marijuana.

decriminalize

/ diːˈkrɪmənəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to remove (an action) from the legal category of criminal offence

   to decriminalize the possession of marijuana

Derived Forms

• ˌdecriminaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• de·crimi·nal·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of decriminalize¹

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70; de- + criminal + -ize

Example Sentences

Yet as more and more states vote to decriminalize cannabis while medical access has expanded to 38 states, other data suggests pregnant people are increasingly being prosecuted for using the drug in pregnancy.

From Salon

Scotland currently suffers the worst overdose crisis in Europe, and the Scottish government has been pushing for reform, including decriminalizing personal quantities, providing safe consumption spaces and widening access to naloxone.

From Salon

Some Democrats have advocated for decriminalizing the border and limiting the Justice Department’s ability to make criminal referrals in such cases.

From Los Angeles Times

When she ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, Harris supported decriminalizing illegal border crossings.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2019, you said you favored decriminalizing unauthorized border crossings, making them a civil offense instead of a criminal offense.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• legitimize