Definition of "deactivate" in English

verb

1. (ergative) to make something inactive or no longer effective

   • deactivate an account
   • deactivate a device
   • The technician deactivated the alarm system before repairs began.
   • You should deactivate your old account to protect your privacy.

2. to prevent the action of a biochemical agent (such as an enzyme)

   • chemically deactivate
   • The chemical agent was deactivated by exposure to heat.

3. to remove a person or piece of hardware from active military service

4. (Internet, euphemistic, neologism) to commit suicide