disarm
dis-ARM
/dɪsˈɑːm/
To deactivate a security system, alarm, or weapon, returning it to a passive or safe state.
Disarming a system does not turn it off completely; it simply stops it from triggering alarms when sensors detect activity.
The story behind the word. The word 'disarm' is formed by combining the Latin prefix dis- (expressing reversal or removal) with the verb armare (to arm). Historically, it meant to strip an enemy of their weapons or armor after a battle. In modern home security, it refers to entering a passcode to tell the system that you are an authorized resident and it should stand down.
Word relationships
- deactivate: A general term for turning off any system, while disarm specifically refers to removing a system's defensive or alarm capabilities.
- neutralize: To render something harmless, often by force, whereas disarm is the standard, authorized way to turn off an alarm.
- arm: To prepare a security system or weapon for active defense, which is the direct opposite of disarm.
Commonly confused with
- deactivate: To disarm specifically removes defensive capabilities or weapons, while deactivate is a general term for turning off any system.
Word family
- disarmed (adjective): Deprived of weapons or security defenses.
- disarmament (noun): The reduction or withdrawal of military forces and weapons.
Collocations
- disarm the alarm
- disarm the system
- quickly disarm
- enter code to disarm
Example sentences
- "She had to disarm the alarm within thirty seconds of entering the house." Returning home and turning off the alarm.
Memory hook
Think of 'disarming' as 'dismissing the arms'—telling the security system's defenses to stand down. Disarm the alarm to dismiss the defense.
When not to use
Do not use 'disarm' to describe turning off a light switch or shutting down a computer.
Fun facts
- In psychology, a 'disarming' personality trait is one that removes suspicion or hostility from others, metaphorically stripping them of their emotional defenses.
Explore more words
deactivate, demilitarize, defuse, disarmament, demobilize, de-escalate
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