Definition of "divest" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To strip, deprive, or dispossess (someone) of something (such as a right, passion, privilege, or prejudice).

   • You shall never divest me of my right to free speech.
   • When I wake up, I make a point to divest myself of all my prejudices, ready to start the day.

2. (transitive, finance) To sell off or be rid of through sale, especially of a subsidiary.

   • In 2011, the company divested an 81% majority stake in its foreign subsidiary.
   • Glasgow will become the first university in Europe to divest from fossil fuels.

3. (transitive, archaic) To undress.