Word
deactivate
Phoneticsde·ac·ti·vate, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌdiˈæktɪˌveɪt/
UK/diːˈæktɪvˌeɪt/
Technology
Definition
v. to turn off or stop a machine, a system, or a feature. You use this when you want to disable something that is currently working.
v. to disable or turn off a device, system, or function. Transitive — requires a direct object.
Examples
“You need to deactivate the alarm before you leave.”
“The technician will deactivate the server to perform a full system update during the weekend.”
“Security protocols require that the administrator deactivate the firewall before attempting to install the new software to prevent any potential conflicts during the installation process.”
Examples
simple
“You need to deactivate the alarm before you leave.”
contextual
“The technician will deactivate the server to perform a full system update during the weekend.”
complex
“Security protocols require that the administrator deactivate the firewall before attempting to install the new software to prevent any potential conflicts during the installation process.”
Real-World Examples
“Russian officials highlight “ human control ,” with a focus on the ability to alter the system, deactivate it or provide limitations, such as on the types of targets that it can engage.” “The shooter’s account was deactivated, but she was able to get a new account and continue using the platform to plan her attack.” “The manufacturer states that the average time to deactivate 89% of the medication is eight hours; two days for 96%; and two weeks for 99%-100%.” Etymology
From de- + activate.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/deactivate