# deactivation

/diːˌæktɪvˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deactivation
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

turning something off so it stops working or can no longer be used. You use it for accounts, devices, or alarms.

For teachers: the process of rendering something inactive, inoperative, or no longer in effect, such as a device, account, alarm, or biological mechanism.

## Examples

- Account deactivation takes only a few minutes online.
- After leaving the company, she requested the deactivation of her work email and building pass.
- The museum's overnight security protocol requires the careful deactivation of motion sensors before cleaning crews enter the galleries.

## Synonyms

shutdown, suspension, cancellation, closure, termination

## Antonyms

activation

## Usage notes

- Often followed by 'of' + noun phrase, as in 'deactivation of the account'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.