dismantle

dis·man·tle

verb \(ˌ)dis-ˈman-t^əl\

dis·man·tleddis·man·tling\-ˈmant-liŋ, -ˈman-t^əl-\

Definition of DISMANTLE

transitive verb

1

: to take to pieces; also : to destroy the integrity or functioning of

2

: to strip of dress or covering : divest

3

: to strip of furniture and equipment

— dis·man·tle·ment \-ˈman-t^əl-mənt\ noun

Examples of DISMANTLE

1. The mechanic dismantled the engine to repair it.
2. When will they dismantle the old bridge?
3. The after-school program was dismantled due to lack of funding.
4. He accuses them of trying to dismantle the country's legal system.

Origin of DISMANTLE

Middle French desmanteler, from des- dis- + mantel mantle

First Known Use: 1579

Related to DISMANTLE

Synonyms: break down, demount, disassemble, dismember, dismount, knock down, strike, take down

Antonyms: assemble, construct

Related Words: detach, disengage; break up, disaggregate, disarticulate, disconnect, disjoin, disjoint, dissever, disunite, divide, separate

Near Antonyms: build, erect, pitch; combine, unite

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Rhymes with DISMANTLE

Fremantle, quadrantal