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Deactivate: meaning, definitions and examples

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deactivate

 

[ diːˈæktɪveɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

computer security

To deactivate means to disable a function or feature, especially in the context of computer systems or devices. It is the process of rendering something inoperative or non-functional.

Synonyms

disable, shut down, turn off

Examples of usage

  • Please deactivate your account before uninstalling the app.
  • The IT department deactivated the security system for maintenance purposes.
Context #2 | Verb

personal relationships

In the context of personal relationships, to deactivate can mean to withdraw or distance oneself emotionally or physically from someone or something.

Synonyms

disengage, distance, withdraw

Examples of usage

  • She decided to deactivate from social media to focus on her mental health.
  • He chose to deactivate from the toxic environment of his workplace.

Translations

Translations of the word "deactivate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desativar

🇮🇳 निष्क्रिय करना

🇩🇪 deaktivieren

🇮🇩 nonaktifkan

🇺🇦 деактивувати

🇵🇱 dezaktywować

🇯🇵 無効にする

🇫🇷 désactiver

🇪🇸 desactivar

🇹🇷 devre dışı bırakmak

🇰🇷 비활성화하다

🇸🇦 تعطيل

🇨🇿 deaktivovat

🇸🇰 deaktivovať

🇨🇳 停用

🇸🇮 deaktivirati

🇮🇸 afvirkja

🇰🇿 белсендіруді тоқтату

🇬🇪 დეაქტივაცია

🇦🇿 deaktivasiya etmək

🇲🇽 desactivar

Etymology

The word 'deactivate' originated from the combination of 'de-' meaning 'reverse the action of' and 'activate' meaning 'make something active or operative'. The term first appeared in the late 19th century in the context of machinery and technology, before extending to various other fields such as computer systems and personal relationships.

See also: activated, activating, activation, activator, deactivation, deactivator.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,454 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.