Decommission Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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decommission
[ˌdiːkəˈmɪʃən ]
Definition
military equipment
To decommission means to withdraw something from active service or use, particularly in the context of military equipment, ships, or facilities. Once something is decommissioned, it is no longer useful for its intended purpose and is often disposed of or can be repurposed. The process typically involves dismantling the item and ensuring that it is safe and compliant with regulations.
Synonyms
deactivate, remove from service, retire, withdraw.
Examples of usage
- The navy decided to decommission the aging battleship.
- After many years of service, they will decommission the old aircraft.
- The reactors were decommissioned after the nuclear facility was closed.
- The company is planning to decommission the obsolete manufacturing plant.
Translations
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Origin of 'decommission'
The term 'decommission' originates from the mid-20th century, derived from the prefix 'de-', meaning 'reverse' or 'remove', and 'commission', which comes from the Latin 'commissionem', meaning 'to commit or entrust'. It initially referred to withdrawing ships from active duty, especially in the context of the military. Over time, it has evolved to include various forms of equipment, facilities, and even corporate entities as they cease operations or are rendered inactive. The process is often systematic, involving rules and regulations to ensure safety and compliance in the decommissioning process.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #37,952, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.