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Defuse: meaning, definitions and examples

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defuse

 

[ dɪˈfjuz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

situation management

To defuse means to reduce the intensity of a potentially dangerous or explosive situation. It can refer to calming a confrontation, resolving tension, or neutralizing a threat. Initially used in the context of military explosives, it has since evolved to encompass broader applications in conflict resolution and interpersonal relationships. Effective defusing often involves communication, empathy, and negotiation skills.

Synonyms

alleviate, calm, mitigate, reduce.

Examples of usage

  • The negotiator was able to defuse the volatile situation.
  • He tried to defuse the argument by changing the subject.
  • Her calm demeanor helped defuse the angry crowd.

Translations

Translations of the word "defuse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desarmar

🇮🇳 निष्क्रिय करना

🇩🇪 entschärfen

🇮🇩 menjinakkan

🇺🇦 знешкодити

🇵🇱 rozbroić

🇯🇵 解除する (kaijo suru)

🇫🇷 désamorcer

🇪🇸 desactivar

🇹🇷 etkisiz hale getirmek

🇰🇷 해체하다 (haechehada)

🇸🇦 إبطال

🇨🇿 zneškodnit

🇸🇰 zneškodniť

🇨🇳 拆除 (chāichú)

🇸🇮 razorožiti

🇮🇸 afvopna

🇰🇿 зарарсыздандыру

🇬🇪 განაიარაღე

🇦🇿 zərərsizləşdirmək

🇲🇽 desactivar

Etymology

The term 'defuse' originated from the military jargon concerning explosives. It first appeared in the 1940s and was primarily used to describe the act of removing the fuse from an explosive device, thereby rendering it safe. The word is derived from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal' or 'reversal' and 'fuse,' which pertains to a cord or device that ignites an explosive. Over time, the usage of 'defuse' expanded beyond the military context, becoming applicable in social and psychological situations where one aims to lessen tension or conflict. Today, 'defuse' implies a proactive approach in disarming potential confrontations or emotional flare-ups, making it a popular term in conflict resolution and diplomacy.

See also: fusible, fusing, fusion, infuse, refuse.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,979, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.