deactivates

verb

present tense third-person singular of deactivate
as in kills
to cause to stop functioning deactivate the machine carefully, or you'll risk an electric shock

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of deactivates The heat from the water also deactivates enzymes that break down pigments. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2025 The man looks down almost immediately after the light turns on when the light deactivates. — Perry Vandell, AZCentral.com, 10 Feb. 2026 This higher temperature darkens the paste, slightly caramelizes the sugar, and deactivates enzymes that would otherwise break down pectin, resulting in a thicker, more cooked-tasting product. — Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deactivates
kills
Verb
  • Frequently asked questions What kills Japanese beetles instantly?
    — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • In the end, Sophia kills Elgin and steals most of the talismans that protect the Fromville citizens from the night walkers.
    — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of kills

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deactivated
deactivates
deactivating
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Cite this Entry

“Deactivates.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deactivates. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on deactivates

Nglish: Translation of deactivates for Spanish Speakers

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