defang

verb

de·​fang (ˌ)dē-ˈfaŋ How to pronounce defang (audio)
defanged; defanging; defangs

transitive verb

: to make harmless or less powerful

Examples of defang in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Reddit post goes into more depth about the whole process of defanging the data grabbers and replacing them with services the owner might actually have control over. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 28 Oct. 2026 But something about putting that concept for a musical in the hands of children defangs it. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026 It was seen as a way of defanging any potential investigation. — Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026 What threats are out there, and what are the league’s tactics to defang them? — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 8 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defang

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defang was in 1919

Rhymes for defang

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Browse Nearby Words

defamingly
defang
defassa
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Cite this Entry

“Defang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defang. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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