decriminalize

verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize (ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz 

-ˈkrim-nəl-

decriminalized; decriminalizing; decriminalizes

transitive verb

: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of

especially : to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation

decriminalize the possession of marijuana

decriminalization

(ˌ)dē-ˌkri-mə-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

-ˌkrim-nəl-

noun

Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Although cannabis has been decriminalized in Thailand, where Shaw allegedly ordered the candies from, since 2024, Indonesia has some of the world’s strictest drug laws, according to the AP. —Sean Neumann, People.com, 16 May 2025

However, recent laws have taken place to decriminalize marijuana laws in the state. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 Apr. 2025

These gatherings not only serve as a day of fun but also as a rallying cry for the ongoing fight to decriminalize marijuana and expand access to it for medical use. —Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2025

The European Quasi-Legalization Approach The Czech Republic has had a tolerant approach to recreational cannabis, decriminalizing small amounts since 2010. —Dario Sabaghi, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for decriminalize

• contextualize
• industrialize
• materialise
• materialize
• memorialize
• microenterprise
• overemphasize
• particularize
• revolutionise
• revolutionize
• actualize
• antagonize

Legal Definition

decriminalize

transitive verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz 

decriminalized; decriminalizing

: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of

decriminalization

dē-ˌkri-mən-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən 

noun